Olympic Medallist Sakshee Malikkh Raises Concerns Over Venue Selection for Junior Wrestling Nationals Amidst Controversy and Leadership Change

Olympic medallist Sakshee Malikkh expressed her disappointment at the selection of Gonda in Uttar Pradesh as the venue for the junior wrestling nationals. Gonda is known to be the stronghold of former Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who has faced accusations of sexually exploiting women wrestlers, leading to his resignation. Despite the change in leadership with Sanjay Singh winning the recent elections, concerns have been raised about Brij Bhushan's continued influence over the national federation.

Following the election results, Sakshee Malikkh tearfully announced her retirement from wrestling, and Bajrang Punia, another Olympic bronze medallist, returned his Padma Shri as a mark of protest. The wrestlers fear the impact of holding the junior nationals in Nandani Nagar Gonda, considering it as Brij Bhushan's area of influence. Junior wrestlers have reportedly expressed their concerns to Malikkh, leading her to question the decision to hold the nationals only in Nandani Nagar.

Malikkh emphasized the need for exploring alternative venues for national events, expressing worry about the junior women wrestlers who would have to compete in the location associated with Brij Bhushan. The wrestling community is grappling with the ongoing challenges and controversies within the federation, raising questions about the fairness and integrity of the sport.