Wrestlers at Jantar Mantar Protest for Safety of Country's Daughters, Committee Demands Arrest of Brij Bhushan by May 21

On Sunday, there was an outpouring of support for the wrestlers' protest at Jantar Mantar from various sections of the country.

Bajrang Punia, a renowned wrestler and Olympian, stated that the ongoing protest in the national capital, where farmers from various states have marched in support of their fellow wrestlers, is essentially a struggle for the “country’s dignity.”

Punia, who was interviewed by ANI at the protest location near Jantar Mantar, expressed that they will continue protesting until they receive justice. Their cause is not just for the honor and self-respect of the women and mothers of the nation, but also for the dignity of the country itself.

Satyendra Kumar, a national-level wrestler from Gorakhpur, was present at the protest site during the day and he mentioned that he visits the site every day. “I am here to show my support for my fellow wrestlers. It is extremely disgraceful that, despite numerous complaints and protests over the past 15 days, the government has failed to take any action against Brij Bhushan Singh, the head of the Wrestling Federation of India. We are determined to continue our fight until he is arrested, and will remain steadfast in our efforts,” he added. 

Sandeep Dhange, who is both a kabaddi player and a PhD candidate, expressed the opinion that the police should collaborate and take appropriate measures. Dhange stated "The problem of gender discrimination is not limited to the realm of sports; it exists in various spheres such as workplaces and educational institutions. The female wrestlers who have stepped forward have demonstrated remarkable bravery."

On Sunday, the committee comprising 31 members, declared that if Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the head of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), is not apprehended by May 21, they will make a "significant decision". Despite this, Vinesh Phogat maintained that the farmers have not taken over their protest.

Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU) representative Rakesh Tikait, Khap Maham 24 leader Mehar Singh, and Baldev Singh Sirsa from Sankyut Kisan Morcha (a non-political organization) ascended the platform with the wrestlers and proceeded to speak to the press.

During a large gathering, Tikait said that several leaders from Khap panchayat and SKM were present, and they had reached a decision. It was agreed that representatives from every Khap would attend the protest site daily. These members would remain present during the day and return home in the evening.

"The wrestlers' committee will handle the protest, and we will provide support to the wrestlers from a distance. A meeting has been arranged for May 21st. If the government fails to provide a solution, we will formulate our subsequent course of action," he further stated.

In preparation for an upcoming rally in support of the wrestlers, security measures were heightened beforehand. Over 500 personnel, including several women, from various agencies such as the Rapid Action Force (RAF), Delhi Police, and CRPF were deployed at the location of the protest.

-With Inputs from PTI 

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Security Tightened as Khap Panchayat March Towards Jantar Mantar, Farmers Stopped at Tikri Border