Bajrang Punia Issues Apology to Coach Naresh Dahiya Amid Controversy

Bajrang Punia's Apology to Naresh Dahiya

New Delhi: Olympic medalist Bajrang Punia has publicly apologized to wrestling coach Naresh Dahiya for damaging his reputation during protests against former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.

Bajrang, alongside fellow wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik, had spearheaded a protest accusing Singh of sexual harassment towards several junior female wrestlers.

During a press conference at Jantar Mantar on May 10, 2023, Bajrang made a controversial remark, claiming that Dahiya was a rape accused and thus had no standing to question their protest.

In response, Dahiya filed a defamation lawsuit against Punia, asserting that he had been exonerated by the court.

The court summoned Punia, who was granted bail during the fourth hearing of the case.

On May 17, Bajrang expressed his regret and issued an apology to Dahiya, stating, “I tender my unconditional apology to Mr. Naresh Dahiya for the wrong and insensitive statement made by me against him during the press conference held at Jantar Mantar.”

He further acknowledged the distress caused to Dahiya and his family, emphasizing Dahiya's contributions as a distinguished coach.

Dahiya operates an akhara (wrestling training center) in Delhi's Shahbad Dairy, known as Chhotu Ram Vyayamshaala, where he has trained notable wrestlers, including CWG gold medalist Vinod and others who have excelled internationally.

Reflecting on the situation, Dahiya noted that prior to the protests, many wrestlers had praised the WFI President, and he felt compelled to take legal action after Bajrang's comments.

Following Bajrang's apology, Dahiya accepted it, stating that his lawyer had communicated the apology to him. He clarified that his involvement with Brij Bhushan was minimal and focused solely on work-related matters.

An FIR against Brij Bhushan is currently pending in court.