The Struggle of Women Wrestlers: A Battle for Justice and Solidarity

Women Wrestlers Rally for Justice: Defying Silence (Photo Credit: Google)

Introduction:

The recent events at Jantar Mantar have brought to light the harsh reality of our republic. Delhi Police constables, acting on orders, forcefully disbanded the month-long protest of champion women wrestlers who were speaking out against a BJP MP accused of sexual harassment. The government's strategy has shifted from silence to active repression, reflecting their fear of growing public support for these embattled sportswomen.

Silencing the Voices:

In 2018, a minister of state for external affairs faced swift consequences when accused of sexual harassment. However, the difference in treatment becomes evident when comparing the politically irrelevant M.J. Akbar to the politically powerful Brij Bhushan. The silence of women ministers in the Modi government speaks volumes as they prioritize party loyalty over their duty as elected representatives.

The Silence of Cricketing Heroes:

Our cricketing heroes, who hold significant influence, have remained conspicuously silent on the plight of these champion women wrestlers. While they readily wear black armbands in support of wronged sportspeople abroad, they have failed to stand in solidarity with their own compatriots. The question arises: why do black lives matter to them, but not the lives of our women wrestlers, who face sexual harassment and humiliation?

The Cultural Irony and Hypocrisy:

The BJP MP accused of sexual harassment plans to "flex political muscle" in Ayodhya, the holy land where Lord Ram is revered. Lord Ram, according to the Ramayana, waged a holy war to punish a king who succumbed to his lust. It is ironic that the manipulative actions of Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh in Ayodhya go against the principles embodied by Lord Ram. This highlights the villainy that prevails in the name of religion.

The Absence of Support:

The lack of support from our cricketing icons and IPL players raises questions about their priorities. They seem more concerned about their brand deals and personal success than standing up for justice. The protest of these women wrestlers, who have achieved more international honors than some cricketing stars, finds more support among the common people and NGOs than among our celebrated athletes.

The Power Dynamics:

The involvement of the Union home minister's accomplished son as the secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India adds another layer of complexity. However, it is essential to recognize that dynastic considerations should not overshadow the importance of speaking out against injustice.

The Voice of Vinesh Phogat:

Olympic medalist Vinesh Phogat, one of the protesting wrestlers, questioned the silence of cricketers who expressed solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement but ignored the struggles of Indian sportswomen. She rightly asks if medals and financial gains matter more than seeking justice for those who have suffered unspeakable humiliation.

Unveiling the Regressive Mindset:

The response to the wrestlers' protest on social media reveals regressive mindsets. Supporters of PT Usha and Brij Bhushan Singh use caste identities to discredit the protesting wrestlers, reducing their achievements and concerns to a caste conflict. This highlights the broader issue of social and economic mobility for marginalized groups and the resistance they face from entrenched power structures.

The Fight for Justice and Solidarity:

The protest of these women wrestlers extends beyond sexual harassment; it challenges the prevailing notions of honor, shame, and complicity. By demanding justice, they expose the twisted logic that blames victims for their own suffering and shames them for seeking redress. Their struggle represents a battle against patriarchal control and domination.

Conclusion:

The ongoing protest of women wrestlers at Jantar Mantar is a stark reminder of the fight for justice and solidarity.