Let Truth Come Out: BJP MP Pritam Munde Backs Protesting Wrestlers

Maharashtra BJP MP Pritam Munde has come out in support of the protesting women wrestlers, emphasising the need for prompt consideration of women's complaints.

She becomes the first BJP MP to openly extend support to the wrestlers, who have been demanding the arrest of Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brijbhushan Sharan Singh, also a BJP MP, alleging sexual harassment and exploitation.

"I, not as a member of Parliament, but as a woman say that if such a complaint comes from any woman, then its cognisance should be taken. It should be verified." After verification, authorities should decide whether it is proper or improper, she said.

"If cognisance is not taken, then it is not welcomed in democracy," the Lok Sabha member from Beed said.

"The cognisance of this case is now being taken at an international level. Now if I demand an inquiry committee, it will be a publicity stunt. I expect that action will be taken in this case," Munde said.

Star wrestles, including Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia and Sangeeta Phogat, have been protesting in the national capital, demanding the arrest of Wrestling Federation of India's (WFI) outgoing chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh for allegedly sexually harassing several women wrestlers, including a minor.

They also threatened to throw their medals in the river Ganga, following which Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur on Wednesday urged them to be patient and have faith in the government.

"We have accepted the wrestlers' demand for a committee to probe their allegations. The wrestlers asked for an FIR which has been filed by the Delhi police. A committee of administrators has been set up by the Wrestling Federation of India as they demanded that its office-bearers shouldn't be allowed to function," Thakur said.

He urged the protesting wrestlers not to take any step that could undermine sports and said appropriate action will be taken once the probe into their allegations is completed.