Vinesh Phogat's Unyielding Resolve Amidst Challenges

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat, upon her return from the Paris Olympics, vowed to continue fighting for the betterment of Indian wrestling. Despite disqualification and rejected appeals, Vinesh remains committed to seeking justice against allegations within the Wrestling Federation of India, drawing strength from the support she received.

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat, greeted with an overwhelming reception upon her return from the Paris Olympics, has vowed to continue her fight for Indian wrestling's betterment, declaring that 'truth will prevail.'

Hundreds gathered at IGI Airport on Saturday to welcome Vinesh, who was disqualified for being overweight after reaching the 50kg final. Her appeal against the disqualification was rejected by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

Addressing the crowd, Vinesh emphasized, 'Our fight has not ended and will continue, and I pray to God that the truth will prevail.'

For over a year, Vinesh, together with fellow Olympians Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik, have been protesting against the Wrestling Federation of India and its former chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over alleged sexual harassment of female wrestlers.

Six wrestlers, including Vinesh, staged a protest at Jantar Mantar last year demanding action against the former WFI chief, only to be evicted en route to the new Parliament building.

Vinesh expressed that the welcome she received would give her the courage to continue. 'The love from my fellow Indians, my village, and my family gives me some courage to heal this wound. Maybe I could return to wrestling,' said the 29-year-old.

Reflecting on her journey, she added, 'Missing the Olympic medal is the biggest wound in my life. I don't know how long it will take to heal this wound or if I will pursue wrestling again, but the courage I received today, I want to use it in the right direction.'

(With inputs from agencies.)