New Delhi: Before her return to the wrestling mat after 18 months, Vinesh Phogat fears she could be at the receiving end of dubious refereeing decisions at the upcoming National Open ranking tournament.
Since the tournament will be held in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh, the stronghold of former Wrestling Federation of India Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who is under trial on allegations of sexual harassment, Phogat also fears safety of women wrestlers could be compromised.
Being one of the six women grapplers who complained against Brij Bhushan that led to his firm denial and subsequent ongoing case at the Supreme Court, Phogat warned that the Indian government would be responsible for any unsavoury incident.
“If any untoward incident happens to me, my team or supporters during the competition, the Indian government will be responsible,” the Olympian said in a video message.
“The tournament is being organised at a place where his (Brij) influence is strong. Who will officiate which bout, how many points will be awarded, who will sit as mat chairman, everything can be controlled by him and his people.”
She had stayed away from competitions after being disqualified from the 2024 Paris Olympics for being overweight and has planned her return in the 57 kg category, having previously competed in 50kg and 53kg categories.
🇮🇳🙏 pic.twitter.com/hQrGmMLMrS
— Vinesh Phogat (@Phogat_Vinesh) May 3, 2026
‘No special treatment but fairness’
During her break, Phogat became a Congress MLA from Julana constituency in Haryana’s state assembly elections in October 2024 but insisted on not demanding any favours but only fair and transparent during the tournament after resuming training in recent months.
“I don’t want any privilege or special treatment. I only want that results should reflect the hard work of athletes on the mat,” the 31-year-old said.
Phogat said the government’s aloofness commpelled to speak publicly as circumstances are skewed heavily against wrestlers, who complained against Brij Bhushan, for which they could be subjected to hostility.
“I am one of the six women wrestlers who filed complaints. The case is still in court and witnesses are being examined. Competing at a place linked to him, where most people present may be associated with him, puts immense mental pressure on me,” she said.
“I doubt if I will be able to give my 100 per cent in that environment.”