Amid controversy over remarks made in Sakshi Malik’s newly released book Witness, former wrestler and Congress MLA Vinesh Phogat has responded to allegations regarding the Asian Games trials exemption. Vinesh dismissed Sakshi’s claims that “greed” influenced her and Bajrang Punia’s decision to accept exemption, stating, “Greed for what? If speaking for the sisters is greed, I accept it. If it’s greed to bring an Olympic medal by representing the country, then this is a good greed.”
In Witness, Sakshi Malik wrote that the decision to accept exemption from the 2023 Asian Games trials impacted the credibility of their protest, making it appear “selfish.” She also suggested that individuals close to Vinesh and Bajrang “filled their minds with greed,” causing cracks in the protest.
Reacting to these statements, Vinesh emphasized the unity and resolve among the protesting wrestlers. “Until Bajrang, Sakshi, and I are alive, this fight cannot weaken. Those who want to win must never be weak. You have to fight and be tough, and we are ready for it.”
The protest, led by Vinesh, Sakshi, and Bajrang, was against former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, alleging sexual harassment of female wrestlers. The case is still ongoing in a Delhi court.
Both Vinesh and Bajrang recently joined the Congress party and Vinesh won from the Julana constituency in the Haryana elections. She reiterated that the focus remains on justice and continuing the fight, both on and off the field.
