Table Tennis star player Sharath Kamal supported the performance of wrestlers, said- Athletes commission is needed in all NSFs
New Delhi. Legendary table tennis player and Vice-Chairman of the Athletes Commission (AC) of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), Achanta Sharath Kamal believes that the ongoing protest by Indian wrestlers has further strengthened the issue of need for Athletes Commission in all National Sports Federations (NSFs). Is. Wrestlers including Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik have been on a sit-in in the national capital since April 23 following the arrest of WFI (Wrestling Federation of India) chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh for allegedly sexually assaulting seven wrestlers, including a minor are demanding.
The Athletes’ Commission of the IOA was constituted last year. This commission held an online meeting on Saturday to discuss the wrestlers’ protest. Sharath was awarded the Khel Ratna last year for his stellar performance in table tennis. He stressed that there is a need to build trust between the commission and the players so that players do not hesitate to seek help. The wrestlers decided to hit the streets to protest without contacting the IOA.
The IOA president at that time had criticized the action of the wrestlers. Sharath, who led the meeting in the absence of Athletes’ Commission chairperson Mary Kom, said, “Many things like creating a platform for athletes, organizing workshops and activities on various topics were discussed in the commission’s meeting.” Another important issue was to talk to the IOA about the formation of Athletes Commission in all NSFs so that we can strengthen the voice of the athletes.
He said, “Athletes should be able to approach the commission on any issue, not just sexual harassment.” Unanimous in showing solidarity as they fight on the streets for justice. Now that the issue is with the judiciary, its solution is beyond the reach of the IOA and the Athletes’ Commission. First an athlete and then an administrator.
