The wrestling community in India has been rocked by allegations of sexual harassment against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. Now, Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan has been called on to offer his support to the wrestlers who have been protesting at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar.
Mahavir Phogat, former wrestler and father of Geeta and Babita Phogat who became household names after their inspiring story was turned into the blockbuster film ‘Dangal’ by Aamir Khan, is among those leading the call for action against the WFI chief.
Phogat has urged Khan to lend his voice to the cause, telling India Today that, “I don’t have expectations from any stars but if he (Aamir Khan) tweets in support, we would like it.”
Khan has not yet commented on the allegations or the protests. In fact, the actor quit Twitter in 2021 to focus more on his work, which has left some questioning his silence on this issue.
Phogat has made it clear that the protests are not about politics, but rather about holding those in power accountable for their actions. He claims that even Babita Phogat, his other wrestler daughter, is supporting the cause.
Singh, the WFI chief, has denied the allegations against him and has said that if he resigns it would mean that he has accepted the charges. He has also claimed that 90% of Haryana players stand with him, and that only one wrestling family continues to protest at Jantar Mantar.
The Delhi Police has registered two FIRs against Singh for sexual harassment and exploitation of female wrestlers.
Meanwhile, Vinesh Phogat, a three-time Commonwealth Games champion and Babita Phogat’s cousin, has advised the wrestlers to fight their own battle and stay away from sharing the stage with political leaders.
The wrestlers have held multiple protests at Jantar Mantar, including a candle march on April 26, urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to listen to their ‘Mann Ki Baat’.