Controversy Surrounds National Wrestling Tournament Amid Safety Concerns

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) refuses to change the venue for the National Open Ranking Tournament in Gonda, despite safety concerns raised by wrestler Vinesh Phogat. Phogat alleges potential bias linked to former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. The tournament is scheduled for May 10-12.

The National Open Ranking Tournament's venue remains unchanged as Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) President Sanjay Singh offers a "personal guarantee" for wrestler Vinesh Phogat's safety. Phogat, facing her first major comeback, had raised alarms about biased officiating due to the location's ties with former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.

Sanjay Singh emphasized the open nature of the tournament, clarifying it is non-mandatory and ensuring UWW-approved referees for unbiased trials. The tournament, drawing around 1400 registrations, will boycott any disruption that a venue change could incur.

Phogat, also a politician, expressed concern over mental distress in a potentially hostile environment. The ongoing legal case involving sexual harassment allegations against Singh adds layers of complication, as Phogat is one of the complainants. The sports ministry has been criticized for its alleged inaction.