New Delhi, Dec 6 – Olympian and Haryana MLA Vinesh Phogat has publicly accused the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) of treating veteran wrestler Nirmala Boora “extremely unfairly” during the latest national trials. According to Vinesh, Boora was barred from competing with no explanation provided for her exclusion.
Vinesh has long clashed with the national federation, having led a protest against former WFI president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who was allegedly accused of sexually harassing young wrestlers. Although a court cleared Brij Bhushan, Vinesh and other dissenters argue that the BJP‑led government failed to conduct a thorough inquiry, questioning the impartiality of the investigation.
On Saturday, Vinesh, who represents the Julana constituency in the Haryana Assembly, posted a statement on social media in support of Nirmala Boora. She highlighted Boora’s credentials: a Bhim awardee, Commonwealth Games silver medallist, Asian Championship silver medallist, and a 20‑time podium finisher at the Senior Nationals, including 14‑15 golds at that level. Boora, currently an Inspector with the Haryana Police, remains one of India’s most seasoned wrestlers, competing consistently at an age that many find inspirational.
Vinesh described the exclusion as wholly unjust. “Nirmala Boora was denied a place in the national trials without any reason,” she wrote, adding that the federation’s leadership is “running the show like a gang of thugs” who arbitrarily pick athletes without transparency.
She criticized both the Haryana and Central Sports Ministries for not taking decisive action, noting that athletes invest years of hard work and deserve a fair shot. Vinesh herself had reached the final of the 53‑kg category at the 2024 Paris Olympics but was disqualified after weighing in above the limit on the day of the final.
A 31‑year‑old powerhouse, Vinesh is a two‑time World Championships bronze medallist, former Asian champion, Asian Games gold medallist, and a triple Commonwealth Games gold medallist. She remarked that Boora’s mistreatment casts doubts on the future of aspiring wrestlers in India. “If an experienced athlete like Nirmala, who has earned countless medals for our country, is being ignored, what does that say for the next generation?” Vinesh questioned. She called for a sweeping overhaul of India’s sports system to restore transparency, accountability, and fairness, ensuring athletes are rewarded for merit alone.
Vinesh reaffirmed her backing for Nirmala and urged swift governmental intervention. “I stand with Nirmala Didi to defend her honor and uphold every athlete’s rights,” she urged. “I ask the Ministry of Sports and all relevant bodies to step in immediately, taking concrete measures to deliver justice for her.” Vinesh, who retired from competitive wrestling after the Paris Olympics, concluded with a call for action.
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