Sakshi Malik: The Wrestler Fighting for Women's Rights and Refusing Political Plunge

Sakshi Malik, the renowned Indian wrestler and Olympic bronze medalist, has been at the forefront of a significant battle against alleged sexual harassment within the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). Despite receiving several political offers, Malik has steadfastly refused to enter politics, choosing instead to focus on her advocacy for women in wrestling.

Protest and Advocacy

Malik, along with fellow wrestlers Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat, has been instrumental in the protest against former WFI President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who is accused of sexual harassment. The protest, which began in January 2023, has been a year-long fight for justice and has garnered significant support both in India and internationally.

Malik emphasized that her fight is against the exploitation of women in wrestling and not a political campaign. She stated, 'I believe in staying true to my fight for women in wrestling. Our agitation, the fight for women, should not be given a wrong impression... From my end, the agitation continues...I too had received offers, but I wanted to see what I started till the end'.

Political Offers and Decisions

While Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat have joined the Congress party ahead of the Haryana Assembly polls, Sakshi Malik has opted out of politics. Malik clarified that the decision of Punia and Phogat to join Congress is their personal choice and does not reflect on the ongoing protest against the WFI.

Vinesh Phogat is set to contest the Haryana Assembly election, while Bajrang Punia will likely be appointed as the co-chairman of the campaign committee for the Haryana Congress. Malik, however, remains committed to her fight against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and the exploitation within the WFI.

Memoir and Recognition

Sakshi Malik is set to release her memoir, titled 'Witness,' which will provide an honest account of her wrestling career, including her journey to the Rio Olympics and her recent disputes with the WFI. The memoir, co-authored by Jonathan Selvaraj, is scheduled for release in October.

Malik's relentless fight against alleged sexual harassment has earned her a place in Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People of 2023 list, making her the first Indian wrestler to be featured in this prestigious list.