Vinesh Phogat Reveals Harassment by Former WFI Chief Amid Asian Games Trials Concerns
Vinesh Phogat Speaks Out
Vinesh Phogat has come forward as one of the six women who faced harassment from Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the former chief of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). She expressed concerns that the upcoming trials for the 2026 Asian Games are manipulated to hinder her return to the sport. Vinesh was a prominent figure in the protests against Singh at Jantar Mantar in Delhi in 2023, but this marks the first time she has publicly acknowledged her victim status.
In a video shared on social media, Vinesh disclosed her situation, stating that she initially intended to remain silent until the legal proceedings concluded. However, she felt compelled to speak out due to recent developments. "The Supreme Court guidelines emphasize that a victim's identity should remain confidential to protect their dignity and honor," she noted in her video on May 3. "Yet, I must reveal that I am one of the six victims who filed a complaint, and our testimonies are still in progress."
Vinesh highlighted the challenges women athletes face in such circumstances, saying, "Competing under these conditions is incredibly tough, and any athlete who has experienced similar situations can understand this."
🇮🇳🙏 pic.twitter.com/hQrGmMLMrS
— Vinesh Phogat (@Phogat_Vinesh) May 3, 2026
She further claimed that the National Open Ranking tournament, crucial for selection trials for the Asian Games and World Championships, is being held at a private college owned by Singh in Gonda, which she believes compromises fairness. "His private college is hosting this competition, making it unlikely for every dedicated athlete to receive fair treatment," she asserted.
Despite Singh's removal, Vinesh alleged that the WFI continues to operate under his influence through the current chief, Sanjay Singh. "The control over match refereeing and scoring remains with Singh and his associates, while the government and sports ministry observe passively," she remarked. "Competing at his college, where everyone is connected to him, presents significant challenges. I doubt I can perform at my best in such an environment."