Notice the anguish in her eyes. What crime did she do to deserve this?
Let’s look at the way in which the so-called wrestlers have taken it too far, and why even their own aren’t backing them.
Objection to Special Treatment
India’s wrestling community is in turmoil as controversy surrounds the selection process for the upcoming Asian Games. Ace wrestler Antim Panghal, along with wrestler Vishal Kaliraman, has raised objections to the ad-hoc committee’s decision to grant direct entry to Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia, bypassing the trial process. This contentious issue has sparked heated debates and divisions within the sport.
Antim Panghal, India’s first wrestler to win the World U20 Gold Medal, has been vocal about her stance against the trial-free entry given to Vinesh and Bajrang for the Asian Games. She believes that a fair trial without bias and prejudice should be the cornerstone of any selection process. Her sentiments have garnered support from other promising wrestlers like Olympics silver medallist Ravi Dahiya and World Championships silver medallist Deepak Punia, who feel that the current system is unfair and biased towards certain individuals.
Also read: Once upon a time, these were legends. Now, they’re just a bunch of losers
Antim Panghal’s frustration is evident as she questions the selection criteria that led to Vinesh’s direct entry. Despite having a competitive bout with Vinesh during the Commonwealth Games trial, she feels that she was unjustly overlooked in favor of the more established wrestler. Antim believes that the decision undermines the hard work and dedication she and other wrestlers have put into their craft for many years.
#WATCH | Wrestler Antim Panghal says, "Vinesh (Phogat) is being sent directly, she doesn't have any achievements in the last one year but despite that, she is being sent directly. Even in the Commonwealth Games trial, I had a 3-3 bout with her. Then too, I was cheated…A fair… https://t.co/X6b5LzOuyd pic.twitter.com/gdVKPdd0Bq
— ANI (@ANI) July 19, 2023
#WATCH | Delhi: Wrestler Vishal Kaliraman says, "Even I play in the under 65kg category and for the Asian Games Bajrang Punia has been given direct entry without any trial. They have been staging a protest for a year now, while we have been practising. We appeal for a trial… We… https://t.co/X6b5LzOuyd pic.twitter.com/IOSmRDlXFR
— ANI (@ANI) July 19, 2023
Why do Vinesh and Bajrang deserve any special treatment?
The ad-hoc committee’s decision to exempt Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia from trials has not been well-received by many in the wrestling community. Some have criticized the duo for allegedly spearheading dubious protests against the Wrestling Federation of India, which they claim was done for personal gains rather than genuine concerns about the sport’s welfare.
While Antim Panghal and Vishal Kaliraman have not ruled out approaching the Delhi High Court if their concerns are not addressed, the situation has become increasingly complex. Former wrestlers like Yogeshwar Dutt and Babita Phogat, who happens to be Vinesh Phogat’s cousin, have also expressed their dissatisfaction with the special treatment given to certain wrestlers.
This issue extends beyond personal grievances, as it could have significant implications for the future of Indian wrestling. The verdict of the High Court on this matter will set a precedent for future selection processes and could impact the way athletes are chosen to represent the country in international competitions.
No backer left!
The wrestling community is divided, with some supporting the ad-hoc committee’s decision while others vehemently oppose it. The key to resolving this dispute lies in finding a middle ground that promotes transparency, fairness, and meritocracy in the selection process. Both the wrestlers and the governing bodies must engage in open dialogue to address the concerns raised and find a solution that benefits the sport as a whole.
Also read: Babita Phogat rips into “Congress ki Kathputli” Sakshi Malik
While it is essential to encourage athletes to voice their concerns and seek a fair selection process, it is equally crucial to ensure that the system remains robust and unbiased. Wrestling has a rich history in India, and it deserves a selection process that reflects the values of integrity and fair play that the sport upholds.
In the end, the focus should be on creating an environment that nurtures talent and supports athletes in their pursuit of excellence. Only then can Indian wrestling continue to thrive and produce champions who make the nation proud on the international stage.
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