Top Indian wrestlers like Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik and Vinesh Phogat are sitting on protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi since April 23 this year, demanding the arrest of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and his removal from the post in the light of allegations of sexual harassment.

They have accused the Sports Ministry, IOA of not listening to their grievances despite the formation of an 'Oversight Committee' headed by IOA President PT Usha as well as an ad-hoc committee to look into wrestling's day-to-day affairs. Amid the protest, here are some facts about the expenditures done by the government on wrestlers and wrestling, as per sources from the media, the Union Sports Ministry, and the Sports Authority of India (SAI).

The government has spent over Rs 150 crores on wrestling during the last five years.&nbsp;Rs 63 crores were spent on sending wrestlers to foreign countries for coaching under the guidance of experts.

Technologically-advanced equipment and specialised training were provided to wrestlers at a cost of Rs 2.5 crores. Also, out-of-pocket allowances worth Rs 15 crores were provided to the expert.

Apart from all this, Rs 35 crore have been spent on domestic training, Rs 25 crore on national coaching, Rs 7 crore on specialised support and Rs 2 crore for national championship events.

Top wrestlers like Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia, have personal expenses of Rs 2.16 crore&nbsp;and Rs 2.58 crore&nbsp;respectively.

Wrestlers will be taking out a candle march at 7:00 PM on Sunday as part of their protest against the Wrestling Federation of India and its president Brijbhushan Sharan Singh.

Vinesh Phogat also said, "The further course of action is being discussed with our legal team. They will decide what to do next."

Earlier, on Friday, Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur said the Delhi Police were conducting an unbiased investigation against the wrestling federation chief.

He also urged the grapplers to allow the ongoing probe to get over.

"A demand had been put forward to form a committee and a panel was constituted. Two FIRs have also been registered by Delhi Police and Supreme Court also gave its verdict. Delhi Police are&nbsp;conducting a fair investigation," said the minister. 
 
"They asked for a committee, which has been already constituted," Thakur said on the sidelines of an event in Lucknow.

On April 23, Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat and Sakshee Mallik returned to the protest site at Jantar Mantar, claiming that six women wrestlers, and a minor, filed a sexual harassment complaint against Brij Bhushan at Connaught Place Police Station but Delhi Police did not register an FIR. The protesting grapplers also demanded that the Sports Ministry make the findings of the Oversight Committee public.

On Wednesday, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha met the protesting wrestlers at Jantar Mantar.

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Usha, a retired Indian track and field athlete and a Rajya Sabha MP, had earlier ruffled feathers with her remarks that the wrestlers should have approached the IOA instead of hitting the streets against the WFI and its president.

"Indian Olympic Association is having a committee for sexual harassment, instead of going to the streets they (protesting wrestlers) could have come to us earlier but they did not come to IOA. It is not good for sports not only for wrestlers, they should also have some discipline," the IOA president told reporters last week, a remark that didn't go down well with the wrestlers.

Three months ago, prominent wrestlers came forward to lead a protest against the WFI chief, following which the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports announced the formation of an 'oversight committee' to probe allegations against the WFI, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and some coaches.

The protesting wrestlers have made it clear that they won't move until they get justice and Brij Bhushan be removed as the WFI chief and put behind bars. 
 
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Top Indian wrestlers like Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik and Vinesh Phogat are sitting on protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi since April 23 this year, demanding the arrest of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and his removal from the post in the light of allegations of sexual harassment.

Top Indian wrestlers like Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik and Vinesh Phogat are sitting on protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi since April 23 this year, demanding the arrest of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and his removal from the post in the light of allegations of sexual harassment. They have accused the Sports Ministry, IOA of not listening to their grievances despite the formation of an 'Oversight Committee' headed by IOA President PT Usha as well as an ad-hoc committee to look into wrestling's day-to-day affairs. Amid the protest, here are some facts about the expenditures done by the government on wrestlers and wrestling, as per sources from the media, the Union Sports Ministry, and the Sports Authority of India (SAI). The government has spent over Rs 150 crores on wrestling during the last five years. Rs 63 crores were spent on sending wrestlers to foreign countries for coaching under the guidance of experts. Technologically-advanced equipment and specialised training were provided to wrestlers at a cost of Rs 2.5 crores. Also, out-of-pocket allowances worth Rs 15 crores were provided to the expert. Apart from all this, Rs 35 crore have been spent on domestic training, Rs 25 crore on national coaching, Rs 7 crore on specialised support and Rs 2 crore for national championship events. Top wrestlers like Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia, have personal expenses of Rs 2.16 crore and Rs 2.58 crore respectively. Wrestlers will be taking out a candle march at 7:00 PM on Sunday as part of their protest against the Wrestling Federation of India and its president Brijbhushan Sharan Singh. Vinesh Phogat also said, "The further course of action is being discussed with our legal team. They will decide what to do next." Earlier, on Friday, Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur said the Delhi Police were conducting an unbiased investigation against the wrestling federation chief. He also urged the grapplers to allow the ongoing probe to get over. "A demand had been put forward to form a committee and a panel was constituted. Two FIRs have also been registered by Delhi Police and Supreme Court also gave its verdict. Delhi Police are conducting a fair investigation," said the minister. "They asked for a committee, which has been already constituted," Thakur said on the sidelines of an event in Lucknow. On April 23, Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat and Sakshee Mallik returned to the protest site at Jantar Mantar, claiming that six women wrestlers, and a minor, filed a sexual harassment complaint against Brij Bhushan at Connaught Place Police Station but Delhi Police did not register an FIR. The protesting grapplers also demanded that the Sports Ministry make the findings of the Oversight Committee public. On Wednesday, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha met the protesting wrestlers at Jantar Mantar. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: Sunil Gavaskar slams MI skipper Rohit for playing rash shot against CSK, wants him to take break Usha, a retired Indian track and field athlete and a Rajya Sabha MP, had earlier ruffled feathers with her remarks that the wrestlers should have approached the IOA instead of hitting the streets against the WFI and its president. "Indian Olympic Association is having a committee for sexual harassment, instead of going to the streets they (protesting wrestlers) could have come to us earlier but they did not come to IOA. It is not good for sports not only for wrestlers, they should also have some discipline," the IOA president told reporters last week, a remark that didn't go down well with the wrestlers. Three months ago, prominent wrestlers came forward to lead a protest against the WFI chief, following which the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports announced the formation of an 'oversight committee' to probe allegations against the WFI, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and some coaches. The protesting wrestlers have made it clear that they won't move until they get justice and Brij Bhushan be removed as the WFI chief and put behind bars. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: Amid protests, a look at expenditures made by govt on wrestlers, wrestling

Top wrestlers such as Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat, etc. continue their protest against Wrestling Federation of India&nbsp;(WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over sexual harassment claims. Since then, several big names have responded to the entire controversy. Recently, Sourav Ganguly -- India's former captain and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)'s ex-president -- also&nbsp;joined the bandwagon and reacted.

In a recent event, Ganguly was quoted as saying by the news agency PTI, "Let them fight their battle. I really don't know what's happening there, I just read in the newspapers. I realised one thing in the sports world, that you don't talk about things which you don't have complete knowledge of. I hope it gets resolved. Wrestlers bring a lot of accolades to the country &amp; hopefully, it will be resolved."

Meanwhile, following&nbsp;a scuffle that broke out between Delhi Police and wrestlers protesting at Jantar Mantar in the national capital in New Delhi, Union Minister Anurag Thakur issued a statement on Friday (May 05). Thakur has revealed that the Delhi Police is&nbsp;conducting a fair probe against the accused, who is also a BJP MP.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/union-minister-anurag-thakur-promises-fair-probe-in-wrestlers-protest-says-necessary-action-will-be-taken-589177">Union Minister Anurag Thakur promises fair probe in wrestlers' protest, says necessary action will be taken</a>

Thakur told reporters, "As far as athletes’ demands are concerned, I would like to say we promised to conduct fair elections, and IOA will be conducting that."&nbsp;He added, "We promised to form a committee, and we have done that too; FIR was to be lodged, and Delhi Police have done that as well. They wanted fair trial, and Delhi Police is on it, too. The Supreme Court, too, has announced its decision."

On Thursday (May 04),&nbsp; the Supreme Court of India&nbsp;closed the proceedings on a plea filed by three female wrestlers – who&nbsp;levelled physical assault charges against WFI chief Brij Bhushan – noting that the FIRs are now registered, and as many as seven&nbsp;complainants are provided with adequate security.

Top wrestlers such as Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat, etc. continue their protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over sexual harassment claims.

Top wrestlers such as Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat, etc. continue their protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over sexual harassment claims. Since then, several big names have responded to the entire controversy. Recently, Sourav Ganguly -- India's former captain and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)'s ex-president -- also joined the bandwagon and reacted. In a recent event, Ganguly was quoted as saying by the news agency PTI, "Let them fight their battle. I really don't know what's happening there, I just read in the newspapers. I realised one thing in the sports world, that you don't talk about things which you don't have complete knowledge of. I hope it gets resolved. Wrestlers bring a lot of accolades to the country & hopefully, it will be resolved." Meanwhile, following a scuffle that broke out between Delhi Police and wrestlers protesting at Jantar Mantar in the national capital in New Delhi, Union Minister Anurag Thakur issued a statement on Friday (May 05). Thakur has revealed that the Delhi Police is conducting a fair probe against the accused, who is also a BJP MP. Also Read: Union Minister Anurag Thakur promises fair probe in wrestlers' protest, says necessary action will be taken Thakur told reporters, "As far as athletes’ demands are concerned, I would like to say we promised to conduct fair elections, and IOA will be conducting that." He added, "We promised to form a committee, and we have done that too; FIR was to be lodged, and Delhi Police have done that as well. They wanted fair trial, and Delhi Police is on it, too. The Supreme Court, too, has announced its decision." On Thursday (May 04), the Supreme Court of India closed the proceedings on a plea filed by three female wrestlers – who levelled physical assault charges against WFI chief Brij Bhushan – noting that the FIRs are now registered, and as many as seven complainants are provided with adequate security.

'Let them fight....': Sourav Ganguly on wrestlers protest against WFI chief, says 'hope it gets resolved'

The Supreme Court on Thursday closed the proceedings on a petition filed by the protesting wrestlers, on whose complaint FIRs have been registered against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.

The apex court noted that security has been provided to the wrestlers and also turned down a plea by their counsel for monitoring of the investigation by a former judge.

A bench headed by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud said that "having due regard to the ambit of the petition and registration of FIRs, we close the proceedings at this stage. The petitioner can move the jurisdictional magistrate or the high court concerned for suitable reliefs."

The bench, also comprising Justices P.S. Narasimha and J.B. Pardiwala, noted that the purpose of the petition before this court was registration of the FIR and also the police have indicated that proper security has been provided to the complainants.

During the hearing, senior advocate Narender Hooda, representing the wrestlers, pointed at news reports claiming a policeman, who was allegedly drunk, misbehaved with the grapplers on Wednesday night at the protest site.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing Delhi Police, said two political leaders from two parties went with folding beds in a truck and the police tried to stop it and a scuffle took place.

Mehta said they alleged that cops were drunk but everyone was medically tested and nobody was found drunk.

Hooda said Singh was openly taking the wrestlers names and he has become a TV star, giving interviews and alleging some businessman is behind all this and questioned about about concealing their identity.

Mehta said complainants are also giving interviews, taking all names. Senior advocate Harish Salve, representing Singh, objected to Hooda`s submissions.

He further informed the court that a senior lady IPS officer is investigating the matter and statements of complainants have already been recorded and some more statements will be recorded in a day or two.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-unsurprised-by-the-approach-but-we-arent-tempted-alex-carey-plays-down-matching-engs-bazball-style-588795">Ashes: Unsurprised by the approach but we aren't tempted - Alex Carey plays down matching ENG's Bazball style</a>

At the end of the hearing, Hooda said: "I am sure as soon as the case is over Delhi Police will drag its feet. This should be monitored by a former judge."

The bench said: "We have confined ourselves to the prayer and that is served and if you are aggrieved by the magistrate court order you can approach Delhi High Court."

The plea filed by wrestlers said they attempted several times to convince Delhi Police to register an FIR, but they failed.

It said women athletes who make the nation proud are facing sexual harassment, and instead of getting the support they deserve, they are being forced to run from pillar to post to get justice.

The plea added said the accused person in this case is an influential person and is misusing the process of law to evade justice and further manipulating the legal system and obstructing justice.

"It is crucial that the police take all complaints of sexual harassment seriously and register FIRs promptly and not create yet another obstacle by delaying the registration of FIR."

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The Supreme Court on Thursday closed the proceedings on a petition filed by the protesting wrestlers, on whose complaint FIRs have been registered against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.

The Supreme Court on Thursday closed the proceedings on a petition filed by the protesting wrestlers, on whose complaint FIRs have been registered against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. The apex court noted that security has been provided to the wrestlers and also turned down a plea by their counsel for monitoring of the investigation by a former judge. A bench headed by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud said that "having due regard to the ambit of the petition and registration of FIRs, we close the proceedings at this stage. The petitioner can move the jurisdictional magistrate or the high court concerned for suitable reliefs." The bench, also comprising Justices P.S. Narasimha and J.B. Pardiwala, noted that the purpose of the petition before this court was registration of the FIR and also the police have indicated that proper security has been provided to the complainants. During the hearing, senior advocate Narender Hooda, representing the wrestlers, pointed at news reports claiming a policeman, who was allegedly drunk, misbehaved with the grapplers on Wednesday night at the protest site. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing Delhi Police, said two political leaders from two parties went with folding beds in a truck and the police tried to stop it and a scuffle took place. Mehta said they alleged that cops were drunk but everyone was medically tested and nobody was found drunk. Hooda said Singh was openly taking the wrestlers names and he has become a TV star, giving interviews and alleging some businessman is behind all this and questioned about about concealing their identity. Mehta said complainants are also giving interviews, taking all names. Senior advocate Harish Salve, representing Singh, objected to Hooda`s submissions. He further informed the court that a senior lady IPS officer is investigating the matter and statements of complainants have already been recorded and some more statements will be recorded in a day or two. ALSO READ | Ashes: Unsurprised by the approach but we aren't tempted - Alex Carey plays down matching ENG's Bazball style At the end of the hearing, Hooda said: "I am sure as soon as the case is over Delhi Police will drag its feet. This should be monitored by a former judge." The bench said: "We have confined ourselves to the prayer and that is served and if you are aggrieved by the magistrate court order you can approach Delhi High Court." The plea filed by wrestlers said they attempted several times to convince Delhi Police to register an FIR, but they failed. It said women athletes who make the nation proud are facing sexual harassment, and instead of getting the support they deserve, they are being forced to run from pillar to post to get justice. The plea added said the accused person in this case is an influential person and is misusing the process of law to evade justice and further manipulating the legal system and obstructing justice. "It is crucial that the police take all complaints of sexual harassment seriously and register FIRs promptly and not create yet another obstacle by delaying the registration of FIR." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

SC closes proceedings on wrestlers plea after registration of FIRs

Top wrestlers' protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI)'s chief Brij Bhushan Singh has been hogging the headlines. Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat, etc., have led the protest&nbsp;as&nbsp;seven female&nbsp;wrestlers, including a minor, have complained against Brij Bhushan alleging sexual harassment.

Amid all the chaos, the Delhi Police revealed, on Friday (April 28), that it is set to register an FIR against Brij Bhushan as the protest tightens. A few days back, sports minister Anurag Thakur&nbsp;claimed that he spent 12 hours with the protesting wrestlers and heard their concerns. However, Punia gave a befitting reply to Thakur's claims.

“The sports minister is saying that he spoke to the players for 12 hours. Once ask the Sports Minister for how long you were sitting among the players. He sat for 2-4 minutes with the players. His officials were mediating with the players,” Punia told reporters a few days back.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/none-have-spoken-up-vinesh-phogat-launches-scathing-attack-on-indian-cricketers-amid-wrestlers-vs-wfi-row-586924">'None have spoken up': Vinesh Phogat launches scathing attack on Indian cricketers amid wrestlers vs WFI row</a>

"A few wrestlers are sitting in protest at Jantar Mantar. I have spent 12 hours hours with them -- seven hours on the first day and five hours the next day (in January). I listened to all their grievances, held a press conference at 2-2.30 at night, formed a committee after talking to them."

"They had asked to add a member and gave Babita Phogat's name, and we added her to the committee. There is nothing in our mind, we wanted an impartial probe," Thakur had revealed at a press conference in Shimla on Thursday (April 27).

Thakur added, "Whoever wanted to present their version before the oversight committee, was given a chance to do so, there were no restrictions. We even increased the timeline of the probe, there were 14 meetings. Whoever wanted to come, came. We gave a chance to every athlete to present their case."

After the Delhi Police filed&nbsp;two FIRs against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the BJP MP told the media, "Their (wrestlers) demands are constantly changing. They first asked for my resignation as the federation chief, I said that would mean accepting the charges against me. Resignation is no big deal, but I won't do it as a criminal. I am not a criminal," he said, adding that it's not a tough time for him as he has always faced difficulties."

Top wrestlers' protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI)'s chief Brij Bhushan Singh has been hogging the headlines. Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat, etc.

Top wrestlers' protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI)'s chief Brij Bhushan Singh has been hogging the headlines. Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat, etc., have led the protest as seven female wrestlers, including a minor, have complained against Brij Bhushan alleging sexual harassment. Amid all the chaos, the Delhi Police revealed, on Friday (April 28), that it is set to register an FIR against Brij Bhushan as the protest tightens. A few days back, sports minister Anurag Thakur claimed that he spent 12 hours with the protesting wrestlers and heard their concerns. However, Punia gave a befitting reply to Thakur's claims. “The sports minister is saying that he spoke to the players for 12 hours. Once ask the Sports Minister for how long you were sitting among the players. He sat for 2-4 minutes with the players. His officials were mediating with the players,” Punia told reporters a few days back. Also Read: 'None have spoken up': Vinesh Phogat launches scathing attack on Indian cricketers amid wrestlers vs WFI row "A few wrestlers are sitting in protest at Jantar Mantar. I have spent 12 hours hours with them -- seven hours on the first day and five hours the next day (in January). I listened to all their grievances, held a press conference at 2-2.30 at night, formed a committee after talking to them." "They had asked to add a member and gave Babita Phogat's name, and we added her to the committee. There is nothing in our mind, we wanted an impartial probe," Thakur had revealed at a press conference in Shimla on Thursday (April 27). Thakur added, "Whoever wanted to present their version before the oversight committee, was given a chance to do so, there were no restrictions. We even increased the timeline of the probe, there were 14 meetings. Whoever wanted to come, came. We gave a chance to every athlete to present their case." After the Delhi Police filed two FIRs against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the BJP MP told the media, "Their (wrestlers) demands are constantly changing. They first asked for my resignation as the federation chief, I said that would mean accepting the charges against me. Resignation is no big deal, but I won't do it as a criminal. I am not a criminal," he said, adding that it's not a tough time for him as he has always faced difficulties."

Wrestling mess: Bajrang Punia gives befitting reply to Anurag Thakur's ‘spent 12 hours with wrestlers' remark

Days after several wrestlers returned to Jantar Mantar in New Delhi to resume protests against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over the allegations of him sexually harassing female wrestlers in the past, Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra has come out in support of the grapplers.&nbsp;

Neeraj, who became the first Indian track and field athlete to win a gold medal in Javelin event at the Summer Games in Tokyo 2021, posted on Twitter, saying what is happening should have never happened&nbsp;and that it's a shame the medal winners have&nbsp;to go through this. He added this being a sensitive issue, it must be dealt fairly, and justice needs to be brought to the table.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wrestlers-should-have-come-to-us-instead-of-going-out-in-streets-ioa-president-pt-usha-586730">'Wrestlers should have come to us instead of going out in streets' - IOA president PT Usha</a>

Neeraj wrote, “It hurts me to see our athletes on the streets demanding justice. They have worked hard to represent our great nation and make us proud. As a nation, we are responsible for safeguarding the integrity and dignity of every individual, athlete or not. What’s happening should never happen. This is a sensitive issue, and must be dealt with in an impartial and transparent manner. Pertaining authorities must take quick action in order to ensure that justice is served.”

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Meanwhile, Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia, are among the known faces who are sitting at Jantar Mantar, raising their voice against WFI chief and some members of the authority.&nbsp;

While many former sports personalities have come in support of them, including another gold medal winner from India, Abhinav Bindra, PT USA – who is the head of the IOA, recently said the wrestlers should have contacted the IOA before taking the matter to the streets, as it is hampering India’s image on the world stage.

“Wrestlers staging protests on the streets amounts to indiscipline. It is tarnishing the image of India,” PT Usha told the media. 
Replying to her, Malik said, “I respect PT Usha. She has inspired us. But I want to ask ma’am, women wrestlers have come forward, raised the issue of harassment. Can’t we protest as well?”

“In the IOA committee, we gave our statements. IOA committee members cried as well. They had assured action will be taken. No action has been taken,” she added.

These wrestlers even approached the police and asked them to lodge the FIR against the alleged Brij Bhushan, but the police denied filing an FIR despite repeated requests.&nbsp;

Days after several wrestlers returned to Jantar Mantar in New Delhi to resume protests against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over the allegations of him sexually harassing female wrestlers in the past, Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra has come out in support of the grapplers.

Days after several wrestlers returned to Jantar Mantar in New Delhi to resume protests against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over the allegations of him sexually harassing female wrestlers in the past, Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra has come out in support of the grapplers. Neeraj, who became the first Indian track and field athlete to win a gold medal in Javelin event at the Summer Games in Tokyo 2021, posted on Twitter, saying what is happening should have never happened and that it's a shame the medal winners have to go through this. He added this being a sensitive issue, it must be dealt fairly, and justice needs to be brought to the table. ALSO READ: 'Wrestlers should have come to us instead of going out in streets' - IOA president PT Usha Neeraj wrote, “It hurts me to see our athletes on the streets demanding justice. They have worked hard to represent our great nation and make us proud. As a nation, we are responsible for safeguarding the integrity and dignity of every individual, athlete or not. What’s happening should never happen. This is a sensitive issue, and must be dealt with in an impartial and transparent manner. Pertaining authorities must take quick action in order to ensure that justice is served.” pic.twitter.com/SzlEhVnjep — Neeraj Chopra (@Neeraj_chopra1) April 28, 2023 × Meanwhile, Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia, are among the known faces who are sitting at Jantar Mantar, raising their voice against WFI chief and some members of the authority. While many former sports personalities have come in support of them, including another gold medal winner from India, Abhinav Bindra, PT USA – who is the head of the IOA, recently said the wrestlers should have contacted the IOA before taking the matter to the streets, as it is hampering India’s image on the world stage. “Wrestlers staging protests on the streets amounts to indiscipline. It is tarnishing the image of India,” PT Usha told the media. Replying to her, Malik said, “I respect PT Usha. She has inspired us. But I want to ask ma’am, women wrestlers have come forward, raised the issue of harassment. Can’t we protest as well?” “In the IOA committee, we gave our statements. IOA committee members cried as well. They had assured action will be taken. No action has been taken,” she added. These wrestlers even approached the police and asked them to lodge the FIR against the alleged Brij Bhushan, but the police denied filing an FIR despite repeated requests.

'What's happening should never happen,' - Gold medalist Neeraj Chopra comes out in support of wrestlers

The top wrestlers of the country have been involved in an ongoing protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Singh over allegations of sexual harassment. It has created a lot of eyeballs in the past few days.&nbsp;It is to be noted that as many as seven female wrestlers, including a minor, have complained against Brij Bhushan of sexual harassment.

Thus, the protest has led to reactions from several athletes in the country. However, not many top Indian cricketers have given their response and their silence has not been well received by Vinesh Phogat. The World Championship medalist launched a scathing attack on the Indian cricketers and told the Indian Express, "The entire country worships cricket but not even a single cricketer has spoken up. We aren’t saying that you speak in our favour, but at least put up a neutral message and say there should be justice for whichever party."

She further opined, "It’s not like we don’t have big athletes in our country. There are cricketers… During the Black Lives Matter movement in the US, they showed their support. Don’t we deserve even that much?"

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wrestling-mess-my-heart-goes-out-to-all-olympic-medallist-abhinav-bindra-backs-protesting-wrestlers-586386">Wrestling mess: 'My heart goes out to all' - Olympic medallist Abhinav Bindra backs protesting wrestlers</a>

Vinesh added, "You do come forward to congratulate us when we win something. Even the cricketers tweet when that happens. Abhi kya ho gaya? (What has happened now?) Are you so afraid of the system? Or maybe there’s something fishy going on there too? (Unke daal mein bhi kaala hai, yeh maan ke chale hum?)

We don’t know what they are afraid of. I understand that they may be concerned that this could affect their sponsorship and brand endorsement deals. Maybe that’s why they are afraid to associate themselves with athletes who are protesting. But it pains me."

Kapil Dev, India's 1983 World Cup-winning captain, was one of the first cricketers to have reacted to the protests and backed the wrestlers, via a story on his Instagram account. On Friday (April 28), the likes of Harbhajan Singh and Irfan Pathan also broke their silence, asking for justice to prevail at the earliest. However, the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Sachin Tendulkar, etc. are yet to respond.

Earlier on Friday, Tokyo 2020 gold medallist Neeraj Chopra also backed the protesting wrestlers and tweeted, "It hurts me to see our athletes on the streets demanding justice. They have worked hard to represent our great nation and make us proud. As a nation, we are responsible for safeguarding the integrity and dignity of every individual, athlete or not. What’s happening should never happen. This is a sensitive issue and must be dealt with in an impartial and transparent manner. Pertaining authorities must take quick action in order to ensure that justice is served.”

The top wrestlers of the country have been involved in an ongoing protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Singh over allegations of sexual harassment.

The top wrestlers of the country have been involved in an ongoing protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Singh over allegations of sexual harassment. It has created a lot of eyeballs in the past few days. It is to be noted that as many as seven female wrestlers, including a minor, have complained against Brij Bhushan of sexual harassment. Thus, the protest has led to reactions from several athletes in the country. However, not many top Indian cricketers have given their response and their silence has not been well received by Vinesh Phogat. The World Championship medalist launched a scathing attack on the Indian cricketers and told the Indian Express, "The entire country worships cricket but not even a single cricketer has spoken up. We aren’t saying that you speak in our favour, but at least put up a neutral message and say there should be justice for whichever party." She further opined, "It’s not like we don’t have big athletes in our country. There are cricketers… During the Black Lives Matter movement in the US, they showed their support. Don’t we deserve even that much?" Also read: Wrestling mess: 'My heart goes out to all' - Olympic medallist Abhinav Bindra backs protesting wrestlers Vinesh added, "You do come forward to congratulate us when we win something. Even the cricketers tweet when that happens. Abhi kya ho gaya? (What has happened now?) Are you so afraid of the system? Or maybe there’s something fishy going on there too? (Unke daal mein bhi kaala hai, yeh maan ke chale hum?) We don’t know what they are afraid of. I understand that they may be concerned that this could affect their sponsorship and brand endorsement deals. Maybe that’s why they are afraid to associate themselves with athletes who are protesting. But it pains me." Kapil Dev, India's 1983 World Cup-winning captain, was one of the first cricketers to have reacted to the protests and backed the wrestlers, via a story on his Instagram account. On Friday (April 28), the likes of Harbhajan Singh and Irfan Pathan also broke their silence, asking for justice to prevail at the earliest. However, the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Sachin Tendulkar, etc. are yet to respond. Earlier on Friday, Tokyo 2020 gold medallist Neeraj Chopra also backed the protesting wrestlers and tweeted, "It hurts me to see our athletes on the streets demanding justice. They have worked hard to represent our great nation and make us proud. As a nation, we are responsible for safeguarding the integrity and dignity of every individual, athlete or not. What’s happening should never happen. This is a sensitive issue and must be dealt with in an impartial and transparent manner. Pertaining authorities must take quick action in order to ensure that justice is served.”

'None have spoken up': Vinesh Phogat launches scathing attack on Indian cricketers amid wrestlers vs WFI row

Olympic medallist Sakshi Malik has appealed to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to look into wrestlers' ‘Mann ki Baat’, who are protesting at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar over sexual allegations against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.

Malik, who alongside several other top wrestlers in the country like Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat, are raising their voices for the wrongdoing against female wrestlers over the years, appealed to PM Modi to look into the matter and bring justice. Malik said PM Modi, who, on every Sunday, speaks on the ‘Mann ki Baat’ podcast, which also has an incredible reach, must listen to the theirs plight and take up this issue on the national level.

As reported by India Today, Malik said she wants PM Modi to meet the wrestlers and address the problem.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wrestling-mess-my-heart-goes-out-to-all-olympic-medallist-abhinav-bindra-backs-protesting-wrestlers-586386">Wrestling mess: 'My heart goes out to all' - Olympic medallist Abhinav Bindra backs protesting wrestlers</a>

"We want Modi ji to call us and meet. Possibly our voice is not reaching him. We want to meet him and explain all about our concerns," Sakshi Malik said.

On the other hand, Vinesh Phogat, an Asian Games and Commonwealth Games gold medallist, also demanded the same, saying if PM Modi can do Mann ki Baat, can’t he listen to Betiyon ki Mann ki Baat (meaning what are the daughters of this country are feeling and going through).

"Possibly after meeting us, he would be able to see the pain of daughters of the nation. PM Modi does Mann Ki Baat, but he should listen to Betiyon Ki Mann Ki Baat as well," Vinesh Phogat said.

In January earlier this year, several wrestlers took to the streets to protest against Brij Bhushan Singh alleging he had sexually harassed female wrestlers. When the matter gained limelight, an overnight Committee, under the chairmanship of legendary boxer MC Mary Kom, was formed to look into this and bring justice. In the meantime, the Sports Ministry also ordered to suspend&nbsp;Brij Bhushan from his post in WFI.

Later, when wrestlers approached the police to lodge an FIR against the accused, the police denied doing it and also leaked the names of those who came forward for this.

As things stand, the wrestlers are still sitting at Jantar Mantar seeking justice from authorities.

Olympic medallist Sakshi Malik has appealed to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to look into wrestlers' ‘Mann ki Baat’, who are protesting at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar over sexual allegations against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.

Olympic medallist Sakshi Malik has appealed to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to look into wrestlers' ‘Mann ki Baat’, who are protesting at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar over sexual allegations against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. Malik, who alongside several other top wrestlers in the country like Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat, are raising their voices for the wrongdoing against female wrestlers over the years, appealed to PM Modi to look into the matter and bring justice. Malik said PM Modi, who, on every Sunday, speaks on the ‘Mann ki Baat’ podcast, which also has an incredible reach, must listen to the theirs plight and take up this issue on the national level. As reported by India Today, Malik said she wants PM Modi to meet the wrestlers and address the problem. ALSO READ: Wrestling mess: 'My heart goes out to all' - Olympic medallist Abhinav Bindra backs protesting wrestlers "We want Modi ji to call us and meet. Possibly our voice is not reaching him. We want to meet him and explain all about our concerns," Sakshi Malik said. On the other hand, Vinesh Phogat, an Asian Games and Commonwealth Games gold medallist, also demanded the same, saying if PM Modi can do Mann ki Baat, can’t he listen to Betiyon ki Mann ki Baat (meaning what are the daughters of this country are feeling and going through). "Possibly after meeting us, he would be able to see the pain of daughters of the nation. PM Modi does Mann Ki Baat, but he should listen to Betiyon Ki Mann Ki Baat as well," Vinesh Phogat said. In January earlier this year, several wrestlers took to the streets to protest against Brij Bhushan Singh alleging he had sexually harassed female wrestlers. When the matter gained limelight, an overnight Committee, under the chairmanship of legendary boxer MC Mary Kom, was formed to look into this and bring justice. In the meantime, the Sports Ministry also ordered to suspend Brij Bhushan from his post in WFI. Later, when wrestlers approached the police to lodge an FIR against the accused, the police denied doing it and also leaked the names of those who came forward for this. As things stand, the wrestlers are still sitting at Jantar Mantar seeking justice from authorities.

Sakshi Malik appeals to PM Modi to listen to wrestlers' plight over ongoing protest against WFI chief

Top Indian international wrestlers such as Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, Bajrang Punia, etc., have alleged WFI president of sexual harassment and are involved in a protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh at Jantar Mantar in the national capital.

Thus, the wrestlers' protest has become a huge talking point in the country and is generating a lot of eyeballs with each passing day. On Wednesday (April 26), Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra shared a heartfelt tweet for the wrestlers and backed them amid their protest.

"As athletes, we train hard every day to represent our country on the international stage. It is deeply concerning to see our athletes finding it necessary to protest on the streets regarding the allegations of harassment in the Indian wrestling administration," Abhinav Bindra tweeted.

"My heart goes out to all those who have been affected. We must ensure that this issue is handled properly, with the athletes' concerns heard and addressed fairly and independently. This incident highlights the crucial need for a proper safeguarding mechanism that can prevent harassment and ensure justice for those affected. We must work towards creating a safe and secure environment for all athletes to thrive in," he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/preliminary-probe-required-before-fir-can-be-filed-delhi-police-to-indias-top-court-on-wrestlers-plea-586259">Preliminary probe required before FIR can be filed: Delhi Police to India's top court on wrestlers' plea</a>

Recently, the wrestlers returned to Jantar Mantar and resumed their protest after revealing that the Delhi Police have refused to file an FIR against WFI chief. It is to be noted that as many as seven female wrestlers, including a minor, complained against him of sexual harassment.

The wrestlers have slept and trained at the protest site over the last four days. It does not seem like the protest will end anytime soon as their demands have not been met so far and there has not been any response from Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, despite the wrestlers' request.

"PM Modi does Mann Ki Baat, but he should listen to Betiyon Ki Mann Ki Baat as well," said Vinesh.

They remain firm in making public the findings of an oversight panel that investigated the sexual harassment allegations against the WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who also happens to be a BJP MP. 
&nbsp;

Top Indian international wrestlers such as Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, Bajrang Punia, etc., have alleged WFI president of sexual harassment and are involved in a protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh at Jantar Mantar in the national capital.

Top Indian international wrestlers such as Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, Bajrang Punia, etc., have alleged WFI president of sexual harassment and are involved in a protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh at Jantar Mantar in the national capital. Thus, the wrestlers' protest has become a huge talking point in the country and is generating a lot of eyeballs with each passing day. On Wednesday (April 26), Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra shared a heartfelt tweet for the wrestlers and backed them amid their protest. "As athletes, we train hard every day to represent our country on the international stage. It is deeply concerning to see our athletes finding it necessary to protest on the streets regarding the allegations of harassment in the Indian wrestling administration," Abhinav Bindra tweeted. "My heart goes out to all those who have been affected. We must ensure that this issue is handled properly, with the athletes' concerns heard and addressed fairly and independently. This incident highlights the crucial need for a proper safeguarding mechanism that can prevent harassment and ensure justice for those affected. We must work towards creating a safe and secure environment for all athletes to thrive in," he added. Also read: Preliminary probe required before FIR can be filed: Delhi Police to India's top court on wrestlers' plea Recently, the wrestlers returned to Jantar Mantar and resumed their protest after revealing that the Delhi Police have refused to file an FIR against WFI chief. It is to be noted that as many as seven female wrestlers, including a minor, complained against him of sexual harassment. The wrestlers have slept and trained at the protest site over the last four days. It does not seem like the protest will end anytime soon as their demands have not been met so far and there has not been any response from Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, despite the wrestlers' request. "PM Modi does Mann Ki Baat, but he should listen to Betiyon Ki Mann Ki Baat as well," said Vinesh. They remain firm in making public the findings of an oversight panel that investigated the sexual harassment allegations against the WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who also happens to be a BJP MP.

Wrestling mess: 'My heart goes out to all' - Olympic medallist Abhinav Bindra backs protesting wrestlers

The Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports announced on Monday that the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) will be forming an ad-hoc committee to conduct the elections for the Executive Committee of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) within 45 days of its formation, to manage day-to-day affairs of the body, including the selection of athletes and making entries for the participation of players in international events.

This committee will be functioning for an interim period till a new Executive Committee takes charge. A letter from the Sports Ministry, the Under Secretary to the Centre, said, "I am directed to say that the Ministry, vide order dated 23 January 2023, has appointed an Oversight Committee (OC) for the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) after allegations made by certain prominent athletes against the President, Officials and some coaches of the Federation for sexual harassment, as also regarding financial mismanagement and arbitrariness in the Functioning of the Federation."

The letter pointed out that the oversight committee has submitted its report to the Sports Ministry and is currently under examination. The preliminary scrutiny of the report has resulted in the following major findings:

-Absence of a duly constituted Internal Complaints Committee under the Prevention of Sexual Harassment Act, 2013, and lack of an adequate mechanism for awareness building among sportspersons, for grievance redressal, etc.

-Need for more transparency and consultation between the Federation and stakeholders, including the sportspersons

-Need for effective communication between the Federation and the sportspersons.

"It may also be noted that after the submission of the report, the OC has ceased to exist," added the letter.

The ministry in its letter declared the WFI elections, scheduled to be held on May 7 as per media reports and a notice by WFI on its website as "null and void", calling for new elections under a neutral body/returning officer.

"Meanwhile, based on the reports in media, and from the notice dated 16.04.2023 posted on the official website of the WFI. it is understood that the election to the EC has been scheduled on May 7, 2023. In this regard, considering the current situation, it is expedient that the said election process should be treated as null and void, and that fresh elections to the EC should be conducted under a neutral body/Returning Officer," said the letter.

"Since Wrestling is an Olympic Sport and WFI is an affiliate member of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and taking note of the current situation of administrative void in WFI, it becomes incumbent on part of the IOA to make suitable interim arrangements for managing WFI so that sportspersons of wrestling discipline do not suffer in any manner."

"In light of the aforementioned, it is requested that a transitory committee or Ad-Hoc Committee may be constituted by the IOA to conduct the election of the Executive Committee of the WA within 45 days of its formation and, to manage the affairs of WFI, including the selection of athletes and making of entries for the participation of sportspersons in international events, for the interim period till the newly elected Executive Committee takes charge," concluded the letter.

Notably, Delhi Police on Monday sought a report from the investigation committee set up by the Union Sports Ministry to investigate the allegations against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and has begun a probe into the fresh complaint by wrestlers, a senior officer said on Monday.

"A report has been sought from the probe committee and after that, the investigation can get a direction. Seven players had filed a complaint against the WFI chief. Many facts will come to the fore after getting the report of the committee," said the Delhi Police official.

After a protest led by some prominent wrestlers of the country this January, the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports had announced the formation of an 'oversight committee' to probe allegations levelled against the WFI and its chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and other coaches.

The committee was tasked with submitting a report on the issue to the ministry.

Top wrestlers have now resumed their sit-in protest at Jantar Mantar here in the national capital after filing a complaint at the Connaught Place police station on Friday (April 21) stating that seven female wrestlers, including one minor, were harassed and exploited by Brij Bhushan in his capacity as WFI chief.

Olympic medalist Bajrang Punia said that this time "all parties are welcome" to join them and they won't back down till action is taken against the BJP MP.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-csk-skipper-ms-dhoni-makes-big-farewell-statement-after-win-vs-kkr-585540">IPL 2023: CSK skipper MS Dhoni makes big FAREWELL statement after win vs KKR</a>

"It's been more than 48 hours since the complaint was made, but an FIR has not been filed yet," Punia told ANI.

The ace wrestler said that this time they will not turn down anyone, and whoever wants to support their protest could come and join them.

"...This time, all parties are welcome to join our protest whether it is BJP, Congress, AAP or any other party.....we're not affiliated with any party...," he said.

Delhi Commission For Women (DCW) has issued a notice to Delhi Police to register an FIR on the issue.

Top Indian wrestlers, including Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat, Ravi Dahiya, and Sakshi Malik, held a sit-in protest in Jantar Mantar in January this year, demanding that Brij Bhushan be removed from the head office and the Wrestling Federation of India be disbanded.

They had accused the WFI body and its chief of sexual harassment and mistreatment of wrestlers.

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The Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports announced on Monday that the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) will be forming an ad-hoc committee to conduct the elections for the Executive Committee of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) within 45 days of its formation, to manage day-to-day affairs of the body, including the selection of athletes and making entries for the participation of players in international events.

The Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports announced on Monday that the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) will be forming an ad-hoc committee to conduct the elections for the Executive Committee of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) within 45 days of its formation, to manage day-to-day affairs of the body, including the selection of athletes and making entries for the participation of players in international events. This committee will be functioning for an interim period till a new Executive Committee takes charge. A letter from the Sports Ministry, the Under Secretary to the Centre, said, "I am directed to say that the Ministry, vide order dated 23 January 2023, has appointed an Oversight Committee (OC) for the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) after allegations made by certain prominent athletes against the President, Officials and some coaches of the Federation for sexual harassment, as also regarding financial mismanagement and arbitrariness in the Functioning of the Federation." The letter pointed out that the oversight committee has submitted its report to the Sports Ministry and is currently under examination. The preliminary scrutiny of the report has resulted in the following major findings: -Absence of a duly constituted Internal Complaints Committee under the Prevention of Sexual Harassment Act, 2013, and lack of an adequate mechanism for awareness building among sportspersons, for grievance redressal, etc. -Need for more transparency and consultation between the Federation and stakeholders, including the sportspersons -Need for effective communication between the Federation and the sportspersons. "It may also be noted that after the submission of the report, the OC has ceased to exist," added the letter. The ministry in its letter declared the WFI elections, scheduled to be held on May 7 as per media reports and a notice by WFI on its website as "null and void", calling for new elections under a neutral body/returning officer. "Meanwhile, based on the reports in media, and from the notice dated 16.04.2023 posted on the official website of the WFI. it is understood that the election to the EC has been scheduled on May 7, 2023. In this regard, considering the current situation, it is expedient that the said election process should be treated as null and void, and that fresh elections to the EC should be conducted under a neutral body/Returning Officer," said the letter. "Since Wrestling is an Olympic Sport and WFI is an affiliate member of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and taking note of the current situation of administrative void in WFI, it becomes incumbent on part of the IOA to make suitable interim arrangements for managing WFI so that sportspersons of wrestling discipline do not suffer in any manner." "In light of the aforementioned, it is requested that a transitory committee or Ad-Hoc Committee may be constituted by the IOA to conduct the election of the Executive Committee of the WA within 45 days of its formation and, to manage the affairs of WFI, including the selection of athletes and making of entries for the participation of sportspersons in international events, for the interim period till the newly elected Executive Committee takes charge," concluded the letter. Notably, Delhi Police on Monday sought a report from the investigation committee set up by the Union Sports Ministry to investigate the allegations against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and has begun a probe into the fresh complaint by wrestlers, a senior officer said on Monday. "A report has been sought from the probe committee and after that, the investigation can get a direction. Seven players had filed a complaint against the WFI chief. Many facts will come to the fore after getting the report of the committee," said the Delhi Police official. After a protest led by some prominent wrestlers of the country this January, the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports had announced the formation of an 'oversight committee' to probe allegations levelled against the WFI and its chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and other coaches. The committee was tasked with submitting a report on the issue to the ministry. Top wrestlers have now resumed their sit-in protest at Jantar Mantar here in the national capital after filing a complaint at the Connaught Place police station on Friday (April 21) stating that seven female wrestlers, including one minor, were harassed and exploited by Brij Bhushan in his capacity as WFI chief. Olympic medalist Bajrang Punia said that this time "all parties are welcome" to join them and they won't back down till action is taken against the BJP MP. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: CSK skipper MS Dhoni makes big FAREWELL statement after win vs KKR "It's been more than 48 hours since the complaint was made, but an FIR has not been filed yet," Punia told ANI. The ace wrestler said that this time they will not turn down anyone, and whoever wants to support their protest could come and join them. "...This time, all parties are welcome to join our protest whether it is BJP, Congress, AAP or any other party.....we're not affiliated with any party...," he said. Delhi Commission For Women (DCW) has issued a notice to Delhi Police to register an FIR on the issue. Top Indian wrestlers, including Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat, Ravi Dahiya, and Sakshi Malik, held a sit-in protest in Jantar Mantar in January this year, demanding that Brij Bhushan be removed from the head office and the Wrestling Federation of India be disbanded. They had accused the WFI body and its chief of sexual harassment and mistreatment of wrestlers. 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India wrestler protest row: Panel to hold sporting body WFI's top election in 45 days, says govt

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) elections have been put on hold after the latest sequence of a row between the wrestlers and the federation. Top wrestlers including Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia addressed a press conference at Delhi's Jantar Mantar and demanded that the government take&nbsp;matters into its own hands over the public findings of the oversight panel that investigated sexual harassment allegations against the WFI chief. The wrestlers have also approached the Supreme Court of India for an FIR against WFI chief Brij Bhushan.

The elections which were originally set to be held on May 7 have now been postponed after the latest row that saw the wrestlers continue their agitation at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. While there is no clarity when the elections will take place, the wrestlers are holding out for their demands while they have also moved to the Supreme Court of India to for an FIR against WFI chief Brij Bhushan Singh Sharan.

As reported by IANS earlier, wrestlers present at Jantar Mantar revealed they even received threats after they tried lodging an FIR against the WFI chief at the Parliament Street Police station; however, the police refused to do so for reasons not known yet.

"We are getting threats from several quarters, and after waiting for more than two months; we tried to file a complaint at the thana (police station), but the police officers shooed us away. We don't know what is happening here. We will start our protest again and sit on dharna (protest) at Jantar Mantar till our demands are met," the unnamed wrestler told IANS, as quoted by Times of India.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-csk-skipper-ms-dhoni-makes-big-farewell-statement-after-win-vs-kkr-585540">IPL 2023: CSK skipper MS Dhoni makes big FAREWELL statement after win vs KKR</a>

Early this year, several women wrestlers came forward and protested at the Jantar Mantar against Brij Bhushan Singh for sexually harassing them in the past on a few occasions. The matter reached the Sports Ministry, who appointed an Oversight Committee under the chairmanship of veteran boxer MC Mary Kom to look into the matter and bring out the truth.

At that time Singh had said, “As I came to know that wrestlers had started protesting in Delhi, I didn't know what the allegation was about. I came to Delhi with a ticket.”

He added, "Regarding the allegation that Vinesh has made [of sexual exploitation], is there anyone coming forward with these allegations? Is there any athlete whose come forward with these allegations &amp; said the Fed pres. has done some sort of sexual assault?" he said.

“It is alleged that the federation is acting like a dictator. Neither will you give trial, nor will you fight at the national level. The problem is when the federation makes the rules. These players, who are sitting on dharna today, not even a single one of them fought in the national,” Bhushan added.

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The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) elections have been put on hold after the latest sequence of a row between the wrestlers and the federation. Top wrestlers including Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia addressed a press conference at Delhi's Jantar Mantar and demanded that the government take matters into its own hands over the public findings of the oversight panel that investigated sexual harassment allegations against the WFI chief.

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) elections have been put on hold after the latest sequence of a row between the wrestlers and the federation. Top wrestlers including Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia addressed a press conference at Delhi's Jantar Mantar and demanded that the government take matters into its own hands over the public findings of the oversight panel that investigated sexual harassment allegations against the WFI chief. The wrestlers have also approached the Supreme Court of India for an FIR against WFI chief Brij Bhushan. The elections which were originally set to be held on May 7 have now been postponed after the latest row that saw the wrestlers continue their agitation at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. While there is no clarity when the elections will take place, the wrestlers are holding out for their demands while they have also moved to the Supreme Court of India to for an FIR against WFI chief Brij Bhushan Singh Sharan. As reported by IANS earlier, wrestlers present at Jantar Mantar revealed they even received threats after they tried lodging an FIR against the WFI chief at the Parliament Street Police station; however, the police refused to do so for reasons not known yet. "We are getting threats from several quarters, and after waiting for more than two months; we tried to file a complaint at the thana (police station), but the police officers shooed us away. We don't know what is happening here. We will start our protest again and sit on dharna (protest) at Jantar Mantar till our demands are met," the unnamed wrestler told IANS, as quoted by Times of India. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: CSK skipper MS Dhoni makes big FAREWELL statement after win vs KKR Early this year, several women wrestlers came forward and protested at the Jantar Mantar against Brij Bhushan Singh for sexually harassing them in the past on a few occasions. The matter reached the Sports Ministry, who appointed an Oversight Committee under the chairmanship of veteran boxer MC Mary Kom to look into the matter and bring out the truth. At that time Singh had said, “As I came to know that wrestlers had started protesting in Delhi, I didn't know what the allegation was about. I came to Delhi with a ticket.” He added, "Regarding the allegation that Vinesh has made [of sexual exploitation], is there anyone coming forward with these allegations? Is there any athlete whose come forward with these allegations & said the Fed pres. has done some sort of sexual assault?" he said. “It is alleged that the federation is acting like a dictator. Neither will you give trial, nor will you fight at the national level. The problem is when the federation makes the rules. These players, who are sitting on dharna today, not even a single one of them fought in the national,” Bhushan added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WFI elections postponed after latest row; Wrestlers seek FIR against Chief Brij Bhushan in SC

India's top wrestlers resumed their protest against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the Chief of the sports governing body, who has been accused of sexually harassing female players. Seven women wrestlers, including a minor, filed a sexual harassment case against the Federation Chief on Friday.

Scandal in Indian Wrestling: Wrestlers resume protest at Jantar Mantar; Phogat, Punia lead revolt

High-profile grapplers like Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik, among others, have returned to Jantar Mantar to resume protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, over sexual allegations on him laid by several female wrestlers earlier. Following reports of Brij Bhushan walking away with a clean chit due to the lack of evidence, the international medal winners returned to raise their voice again on Sunday in New Delhi.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik break down while interacting with the media as they protest against WFI chief Brij Bhushan Singh <a href="https://t.co/OVsWDp2YuA">pic.twitter.com/OVsWDp2YuA</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1650091702944923653?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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As reported by IANS, wrestlers present at Jantar Mantar revealed they even received threats after they&nbsp;tried lodging an FIR against the WFI chief at the Parliament Street Police station; however, the police refused to do so for reasons unknown yet.

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"We are getting threats from several quarters, and after waiting for more than two months; we tried to file a complaint at thana (police station), but the police officers shooed us away. We don't know what is happening here. We will start our protest again and sit on dharna (protest) at Jantar Mantar till our demands are met," the unnamed wrestler told IANS, as quoted by Times of India.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | "We have been going through mental torture, it's about the respect of women athletes...We aren't receiving any response from Sports Ministry, it's been 3 months": Wrestlers protest against then WFI chief and BJP strongman Brijbhushan Singh <a href="https://t.co/44qfs8APbs">pic.twitter.com/44qfs8APbs</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1650089975126556672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Vinesh Phogat even posted a tweet seeking justice for the female wrestlers who were sexually exploited by the accussed.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiPolice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DelhiPolice</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/NCWIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NCWIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DCPNewDelhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DCPNewDelhi</a> , <a href="https://twitter.com/PMO_NaMo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMO_NaMo</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaSports</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/India_NHRC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@India_NHRC</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/SupremeCourtIND?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SupremeCourtIND</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/MLJ_GoI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MLJ_GoI</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/timesofindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@timesofindia</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/ThePrintIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ThePrintIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/cGvY9tAyie">pic.twitter.com/cGvY9tAyie</a>
— Vinesh Phogat (@Phogat_Vinesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/Phogat_Vinesh/status/1650058586473545728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Early this year, several women wrestlers came forward and protested at the Jantar Mantar against Brij Bhushan Singh for sexually harassing them in the past on a few occasions. The matter reached the Sports Ministry, who appointed an Oversight Committee under the chairmanship of veteran boxer MC Mary Kom to look into the matter and bring out the truth.

At that time, the person in question, Brij Bhushan Singh, had said, “As I came to know that wrestlers had started protesting in Delhi, I didn't know what the allegation was about. I came to Delhi with a ticket.”

He added, "Regarding the allegation that Vinesh has made [of sexual exploitation], is there anyone coming forward with these allegations? Is there any athlete whose come forward with these allegations &amp; said the Fed pres. has done some sort of sexual assault?" he said.

“It is alleged that the federation is acting like a dictator. Neither will you give trial, nor will you fight at the national level. The problem is when the federation makes the rules. These players, who are sitting on dharna today, not even a single one of them fought in the national,” Bhushan added.

High-profile grapplers like Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik, among others, have returned to Jantar Mantar to resume protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, over sexual allegations on him laid by several female wrestlers earlier.

High-profile grapplers like Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik, among others, have returned to Jantar Mantar to resume protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, over sexual allegations on him laid by several female wrestlers earlier. Following reports of Brij Bhushan walking away with a clean chit due to the lack of evidence, the international medal winners returned to raise their voice again on Sunday in New Delhi. #WATCH | Delhi: Wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik break down while interacting with the media as they protest against WFI chief Brij Bhushan Singh pic.twitter.com/OVsWDp2YuA — ANI (@ANI) April 23, 2023 × As reported by IANS, wrestlers present at Jantar Mantar revealed they even received threats after they tried lodging an FIR against the WFI chief at the Parliament Street Police station; however, the police refused to do so for reasons unknown yet. ALSO READ: Ashes 2023: Stuart Broad fires early warning for Aussies in busy summer with stellar show at Lord's "We are getting threats from several quarters, and after waiting for more than two months; we tried to file a complaint at thana (police station), but the police officers shooed us away. We don't know what is happening here. We will start our protest again and sit on dharna (protest) at Jantar Mantar till our demands are met," the unnamed wrestler told IANS, as quoted by Times of India. #WATCH | "We have been going through mental torture, it's about the respect of women athletes...We aren't receiving any response from Sports Ministry, it's been 3 months": Wrestlers protest against then WFI chief and BJP strongman Brijbhushan Singh pic.twitter.com/44qfs8APbs — ANI (@ANI) April 23, 2023 × Vinesh Phogat even posted a tweet seeking justice for the female wrestlers who were sexually exploited by the accussed. @PMOIndia @DelhiPolice, @NCWIndia @DCPNewDelhi , @PMO_NaMo, @IndiaSports, @India_NHRC, @SupremeCourtIND, @MLJ_GoI, @timesofindia, @ThePrintIndia pic.twitter.com/cGvY9tAyie — Vinesh Phogat (@Phogat_Vinesh) April 23, 2023 × Early this year, several women wrestlers came forward and protested at the Jantar Mantar against Brij Bhushan Singh for sexually harassing them in the past on a few occasions. The matter reached the Sports Ministry, who appointed an Oversight Committee under the chairmanship of veteran boxer MC Mary Kom to look into the matter and bring out the truth. At that time, the person in question, Brij Bhushan Singh, had said, “As I came to know that wrestlers had started protesting in Delhi, I didn't know what the allegation was about. I came to Delhi with a ticket.” He added, "Regarding the allegation that Vinesh has made [of sexual exploitation], is there anyone coming forward with these allegations? Is there any athlete whose come forward with these allegations & said the Fed pres. has done some sort of sexual assault?" he said. “It is alleged that the federation is acting like a dictator. Neither will you give trial, nor will you fight at the national level. The problem is when the federation makes the rules. These players, who are sitting on dharna today, not even a single one of them fought in the national,” Bhushan added.

Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat reach Jantar Mantar again to protest against WFI chief over sexual allegations

Following an announcement that a new oversight committee will be formed that will probe into this matter, accused Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh will step aside from his post till the investigation is completed, Anurag Thakur - Union Sports Minister informed the media on late Saturday night. Anurag also promised the wrestlers that their grievances will be heard after which the star grapplers decided to call off the protest that began on Wednesday at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi.

While the names of the members of the committee will be announced soon, Thakur said the committee will complete its investigation within four weeks.

"It has been decided that an oversight committee will be formed. Names for which will be announced tomorrow. The committee will complete its investigation within four weeks. The wrestlers put forward their demands. I have assured them that appropriate steps will be taken. All allegations of sexual harassment and financial misappropriation will be probed," Thakur said in a press conference on Saturday.

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"Till the investigation is over, he (Singh) will step aside and co-operate with the investigation and the oversight committee will run the day-to-day affairs of WFI," Thakur added.

Olympic medalists Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik alongside&nbsp;World Championship medalist Vinesh Phogat were among the few big names who were part of the protest&nbsp;as they accused Brij and other members of WFI of sexual misconduct on female players over the past year or so. Punia, who was leading the protest thanked Anurag Thakur for providing assurance that steps against the accused will be taken.

"We have received assurances from the respected minister. I thank you. We protested only as a last resort. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has really helped our game," Punia said.

Earlier, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) announced that a seven-member committee will be formed that will also probe wrestlers’ allegations of sexual harassment against the WFI president. This committee will be chaired by the former Olympic medalist Mary Kom while the Indian Weightlifting Federation of India (IWLF) president Sahdev Yadav, archer Dola Banerjee, Olympic medal winning wrestler Yogeshwar Dutt will also be part of the panel.

Following an announcement that a new oversight committee will be formed that will probe into this matter, accused Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh will step aside from his post till the investigation is completed, Anurag Thakur - Union Sports Minister informed the media on late Saturday night.

Following an announcement that a new oversight committee will be formed that will probe into this matter, accused Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh will step aside from his post till the investigation is completed, Anurag Thakur - Union Sports Minister informed the media on late Saturday night. Anurag also promised the wrestlers that their grievances will be heard after which the star grapplers decided to call off the protest that began on Wednesday at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. While the names of the members of the committee will be announced soon, Thakur said the committee will complete its investigation within four weeks. "It has been decided that an oversight committee will be formed. Names for which will be announced tomorrow. The committee will complete its investigation within four weeks. The wrestlers put forward their demands. I have assured them that appropriate steps will be taken. All allegations of sexual harassment and financial misappropriation will be probed," Thakur said in a press conference on Saturday. ALSO READ: ‘I want him sitting beside me’: Ricky Ponting’s endearing wish for Rishabh Pant "Till the investigation is over, he (Singh) will step aside and co-operate with the investigation and the oversight committee will run the day-to-day affairs of WFI," Thakur added. Olympic medalists Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik alongside World Championship medalist Vinesh Phogat were among the few big names who were part of the protest as they accused Brij and other members of WFI of sexual misconduct on female players over the past year or so. Punia, who was leading the protest thanked Anurag Thakur for providing assurance that steps against the accused will be taken. "We have received assurances from the respected minister. I thank you. We protested only as a last resort. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has really helped our game," Punia said. Earlier, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) announced that a seven-member committee will be formed that will also probe wrestlers’ allegations of sexual harassment against the WFI president. This committee will be chaired by the former Olympic medalist Mary Kom while the Indian Weightlifting Federation of India (IWLF) president Sahdev Yadav, archer Dola Banerjee, Olympic medal winning wrestler Yogeshwar Dutt will also be part of the panel.

WFI chief to step aside as wrestlers call off protest; Anurag Thakur assures probe into the matter

Not overly impressed by the assurances of the government, Indian wrestlers sitting on a silent protest at Jantar Mantar in the Indian capital New Delhi for two consecutive days have issued an ultimatum.

Not overly impressed by the assurances of the government, Indian wrestlers sitting on a silent protest at Jantar Mantar in the Indian capital New Delhi for two consecutive days have issued an ultimatum. The wrestlers said they will lodge multiple FIRs against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh if the federation is not disbanded. The wrestlers met Sports Secretary Sujata Chaturvedi, Director General Sports Authority of India (SAI) Sandip Pradhan, and Joint Secretary (Sports) Kunal. During the hour-long meeting, they were asked to end the protest and assured that their grievances will be addressed. However, since the wrestlers have been demanding a concrete solution to the problem, they were not satisfied with the response. Consequently, Sports Minister Anurag Thakur agreed to meet the wrestlers at his official residence in Delhi at 10 PM IST (1630 GMT) for talks. Read more: Indian wrestlers open 'can of worms', allege sexual harassment, corruption in wrestling federation Without disclosing the minutes of the meeting, Vinesh Phogat said, "It's not just about his (Brij Bhushan) resignation. We will send him to jail. We did not want to take the legal route, because we had hoped for a resolution but if a proper solution is not provided, we will lodge FIRs against the president." "At least 5-6 girls will lodge FIRs tomorrow and it will be a black day if it happens in a country like India where 'Durga' and 'Lakshmi' are worshipped. Then I would say that no woman is safe in this country and no daughter should be born to anyone." Sakshi Malik, an Olympic medalist said the government needed to take over WFI. "We want the government to take control of WFI and we will not compete in any competition under the current president." Read more: All that has happened so far in the protest by the Indian wrestlers against the top wrestling body Earlier in the day, Babita Phogat, a former Olympian, and a BJP member arrived at the protest site and attempted to mediate between the players and the sports ministry. "I'm a wrestler first. The BJP government is with the wrestlers. I have heard instances of abuse in my career as well. There is no smoke without fire," said Phogat. “I have assured them that the government is with them. I will try that their issues are resolved today." The wrestlers have accused the federation president of sexual harassment and exploiting up-and-coming players. SAI has issued an official statement demanding an explanation from the WFI on all charges within the next 72 hours. Read more: Sports ministry gives 72 hours to wrestling body for explanation on sexual harassment allegations (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Wrestlers ready to lodge FIR against WFI president as govt assurances fail to satisfy

After prominent Indian wrestlers sat on a protest against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and levelled allegations of sexual harassment and corruption in the body, the Union Sports Ministry of India took a serious note of the charges following which the Sports Authority of India (SAI) issued an official statement on Wednesday demanding an explanation from the WFI on all charges within the next 72 hours.

After prominent Indian wrestlers sat on a protest against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and levelled allegations of sexual harassment and corruption in the body, the Union Sports Ministry of India took a serious note of the charges following which the Sports Authority of India (SAI) issued an official statement on Wednesday demanding an explanation from the WFI on all charges within the next 72 hours. “Taking cognisance of the protest staged by wrestlers, including Olympic and CWG medalists, in Delhi today and a press conference in which wrestlers have levelled serious charges of sexual harassment of women wrestlers by the President and coaches of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and of mismanagement in the functioning of the federation, the Sports Ministry has sought an explanation from WFI on the allegations and directed it to furnish a reply within the next 72 hours," read the statement released. If the federation fails to provide clarification within the deadline, the ministry will take suitable action against it as per the National Sports Development Code, 2011. As the wrestlers continue their protest, SAI has cancelled the Women National Wrestling Coaching Camp that was scheduled to start on January 18 in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, with participation of 41 wrestlers and 13 coaches. Notably, Indian wrestlers Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik and others sat on a 'Dharna' (protest) on Wednesday at Jantar Mantar in the capital city of New Delhi. Read more: Indian wrestlers open 'can of worms', allege sexual harassment, corruption in wrestling federation During the press conference, Phogat and Malik accused the federation President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of sexual harassment while Bajrang Punia alleged severe mismanagement in the players' training. “Women wrestlers have been sexually harassed at national camps by coaches and also the WFI president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh," said Phogat. "Some of the coaches appointed at national camps have been sexually harassing women wrestlers for years. The WFI president is also involved in sexual harassment." After being put in the spot, WFI President Singh refuted all charges and defended himself by saying that he could be 'hanged' if the allegations against him were proven true. “Is anyone saying that the WFI has sexually harassed a wrestler? Only Vinesh has said it. Has anyone come forward and said that they personally have been sexually harassed? Even if one wrestler comes forward and says that she has been sexually harassed, that day I can be hanged," he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Sports ministry gives 72 hours to wrestling body for explanation on sexual harassment allegations

Big ticket Indian wrestlers on Wednesday opened a can of worms by alleging sexual harassment and corruption in&nbsp;the working&nbsp;of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik accused the federation President Brij Bhushan Sharan Sharma of sexual harassment while Bajrang Punia alleged that the office-bearers of the federation are knee-deep in corruption.&nbsp;

During the protest at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar, Phogat, a veteran of the sport, told the media that 'national coaches' had been molesting female wrestlers over the years.&nbsp;

“Women wrestlers have been sexually harassed at national camps by coaches and also the WFI president Brij Bhushan Sharan Sharma," said Phogat in a press conference.&nbsp;

"Some of the coaches appointed at national camps have been sexually harassing women wrestlers for years. The WFI president is also involved in sexual harassment."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwg-2022-vinesh-phogat-clinches-gold-in-womens-53kg-completes-hat-trick-of-top-podium-finishes-504420">Read more:&nbsp;CWG 2022: Vinesh Phogat clinches gold in women's 53kg, completes hat-trick of top podium finishes</a>

Phogat continued by saying, at&nbsp;least 20 girls whom she knew had been harassed.&nbsp;

"They told me their stories. I can't take their names now but I can definitely reveal the names if we get to meet the Prime Minister and the Home Minister of the country."

“I have been trying to talk to the federation and make them understand my issues and those of other wrestlers for nearly 10 years. But nobody is even ready to listen," she added.&nbsp;

The women wrestlers received support from their male counterparts. Olympic medalist Bajrang Punia said he and his fellow wrestlers will not compete internationally if Bhushan is not removed.&nbsp;

"We will not compete in any international competition until WFI President is removed."

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फेडरेशन का काम खिलाड़ियों का साथ देना, उनकी खेल की जरूरतों का ध्यान रखना होता है। कोई समस्या हो तो उसका निदान करना होता है। लेकिन अगर फेडरेशन ही समस्या खड़ी करे तो क्या किया जाए? 
अब लड़ना पड़ेगा, हम पीछे नहीं हटेंगे । <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoycottWFIPresident?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoycottWFIPresident</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BotcottWrestlingPresident?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BotcottWrestlingPresident</a>
— Bajrang Punia 🇮🇳 (@BajrangPunia) <a href="https://twitter.com/BajrangPunia/status/1615602236197048320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nothing-comes-easy-in-life-indian-wrestler-bajrang-punia-after-clinching-2nd-successive-gold-in-cwg-504321">Read more:&nbsp;'Nothing comes easy in life': Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia after clinching 2nd successive gold in CWG</a>

The Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist added that players never received any money required to prepare and compete for the events.&nbsp;

“The president abuses us. Private sponsors can only come from federation. Young players come and ask us where to go. Any player who asks is banned.“

After the protests by the players started receiving support on&nbsp;online platforms, the WFI president reached the spot and questioned why nobody had raised these issues in the last 10 years.&nbsp;

"I came here as soon as I got to know the wrestlers are protesting. Is there anyone on record who can say the federation has molested us?" said Singh.&nbsp;

"Sexual harassment never happened. If even one athlete comes forward and proves this, I will hang myself."

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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Big ticket Indian wrestlers on Wednesday opened a can of worms by alleging sexual harassment and corruption in the working of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI).

Big ticket Indian wrestlers on Wednesday opened a can of worms by alleging sexual harassment and corruption in the working of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik accused the federation President Brij Bhushan Sharan Sharma of sexual harassment while Bajrang Punia alleged that the office-bearers of the federation are knee-deep in corruption. During the protest at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar, Phogat, a veteran of the sport, told the media that 'national coaches' had been molesting female wrestlers over the years. “Women wrestlers have been sexually harassed at national camps by coaches and also the WFI president Brij Bhushan Sharan Sharma," said Phogat in a press conference. "Some of the coaches appointed at national camps have been sexually harassing women wrestlers for years. The WFI president is also involved in sexual harassment." Read more: CWG 2022: Vinesh Phogat clinches gold in women's 53kg, completes hat-trick of top podium finishes Phogat continued by saying, at least 20 girls whom she knew had been harassed. "They told me their stories. I can't take their names now but I can definitely reveal the names if we get to meet the Prime Minister and the Home Minister of the country." “I have been trying to talk to the federation and make them understand my issues and those of other wrestlers for nearly 10 years. But nobody is even ready to listen," she added. The women wrestlers received support from their male counterparts. Olympic medalist Bajrang Punia said he and his fellow wrestlers will not compete internationally if Bhushan is not removed. "We will not compete in any international competition until WFI President is removed." फेडरेशन का काम खिलाड़ियों का साथ देना, उनकी खेल की जरूरतों का ध्यान रखना होता है। कोई समस्या हो तो उसका निदान करना होता है। लेकिन अगर फेडरेशन ही समस्या खड़ी करे तो क्या किया जाए? अब लड़ना पड़ेगा, हम पीछे नहीं हटेंगे । #BoycottWFIPresident#BotcottWrestlingPresident — Bajrang Punia 🇮🇳 (@BajrangPunia) January 18, 2023 × Read more: 'Nothing comes easy in life': Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia after clinching 2nd successive gold in CWG The Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist added that players never received any money required to prepare and compete for the events. “The president abuses us. Private sponsors can only come from federation. Young players come and ask us where to go. Any player who asks is banned.“ After the protests by the players started receiving support on online platforms, the WFI president reached the spot and questioned why nobody had raised these issues in the last 10 years. "I came here as soon as I got to know the wrestlers are protesting. Is there anyone on record who can say the federation has molested us?" said Singh. "Sexual harassment never happened. If even one athlete comes forward and proves this, I will hang myself." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Indian wrestlers open 'can of worms', allege sexual harassment, corruption in wrestling federation

On Monday (August 15), India is celebrating 75 years&nbsp;of Independence from the British Raj. The country had attained freedom on August 15, 1947 (it is the 75th anniversary of India's&nbsp;independence, but it is still the 76th Independence Day). Each year,&nbsp;the landmark day is celebrated with full enthusiasm across the nation.&nbsp;

As India have dived deep into celebrations and are recalling their freedom fighters who fought for the country, sporting fraternity members have taken to their official Twitter handles to pour wishes&nbsp;on a historic day. The likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Virender Sehwag, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Sania Mirza, Bajrang Punia, Mirabai Chanu and many others have joined the bandwagon in wishing the countrymen on Monday morning. Here are some of the reactions from the country's superstar athletes:

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75 glorious years. Proud to be an Indian. Happy Independence Day to all. Jai Hind. 🇮🇳
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1559039801671618560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-76th-independence-day-celebrations-everything-pm-modi-said-in-his-speech-506947">India's 76th Independence Day celebrations: Everything PM Modi said in his speech</a>

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewProfilePic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewProfilePic</a> <a href="https://t.co/RXgvSv41Vo">pic.twitter.com/RXgvSv41Vo</a>
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न पूछो ज़माने को के क्या मेरी कहानी है, हमारी पहचान तो बस इतनी है कि हम हिंदुस्तानी है | 
 
हर करम अपना करेंगे ए वतन तेरे लिए दिल दिया है…जां भी देंगे ऐ वतन तेरे लिए!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B8?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#स्वतंत्रतादिवस</a> की आप सभी को अनेक शुभकामनाएँ । <a href="https://t.co/lBu7IC0xqe">pic.twitter.com/lBu7IC0xqe</a>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1559017745462611968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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75 years of independence. स्वतंत्रता दिवस की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/5KlQA3Y87d">pic.twitter.com/5KlQA3Y87d</a>
— Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45/status/1559050172532916229?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IrfanPathan/status/1558774490683023360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-is-indian-flag-unfurled-or-hoisted-on-independence-day-whats-the-difference-506751">Explained: Is Indian flag unfurled or hoisted on Independence day? What's the difference?</a>

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Happy Independence Day 🇮🇳 75 glorious years .. <a href="https://t.co/zNcsNSpA9V">pic.twitter.com/zNcsNSpA9V</a>
— Sania Mirza (@MirzaSania) <a href="https://twitter.com/MirzaSania/status/1558953816606777344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Thousands laid down their lives 
so that our country breaths this day. 
never forget their sacrifice. 
Happy Independence Day 🇮🇳🇮🇳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/harghartiranga?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#harghartiranga</a>🇮🇳 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HarGharTiranga?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HarGharTiranga</a> <a href="https://t.co/N8YGoBCZ8U">pic.twitter.com/N8YGoBCZ8U</a>
— sreejesh p r (@16Sreejesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/16Sreejesh/status/1559032803269832706?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Playing for India was a dream and also a huge responsibility to give my best for the nation. It was a proud feeling that I'll always cherish. As our nation completes 75 years of independence, let's strive harder to reach new heights. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaAt75?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaAt75</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndependenceDay2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndependenceDay2022</a> <a href="https://t.co/M6EVisDeLW">pic.twitter.com/M6EVisDeLW</a>
— Mithali Raj (@M_Raj03) <a href="https://twitter.com/M_Raj03/status/1559047270674616320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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May the glory of our Nation live forever! Wishing love, peace and prosperity to everyone on the occasion of Independence Day. 
Proud to be an Indian. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndependenceDay2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndependenceDay2022</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaAt75?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaAt75</a> <a href="https://t.co/pyxolNVCDr">pic.twitter.com/pyxolNVCDr</a>
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1559029008087629825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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सारे जहाँ से अच्छा हिन्दोस्ताँ हमारा 
हम बुलबुलें हैं इस की ये गुलसिताँ हमारा! 
 
Happy Independence day to my fellow Indians all around the world 🇮🇳 😊 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndependenceDay2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndependenceDay2022</a> <a href="https://t.co/jaaMV4hq1X">pic.twitter.com/jaaMV4hq1X</a>
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1559010216166846465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Happy Independence Day to all. 
Jai Hind 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/eaEQjfdTK6">pic.twitter.com/eaEQjfdTK6</a>
— Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) <a href="https://twitter.com/mirabai_chanu/status/1559028971618041857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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सभी देशवासियों को <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B8?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#स्वतंत्रतादिवस</a> की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं। जय हिंद जय भारत ! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/hargharTiranga?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#hargharTiranga</a> <a href="https://t.co/QgC3JHbrA4">pic.twitter.com/QgC3JHbrA4</a>
— Bajrang Punia 🇮🇳 (@BajrangPunia) <a href="https://twitter.com/BajrangPunia/status/1559015700995383296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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On the historic occasion, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsp;hoisted the national flag at the Red Fort, New Delhi on Monday morning. In addition, he&nbsp;paid tributes to freedom fighters such as Tatya Tope, Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqullah Khan who fought hard to free the country from the Britishers.&nbsp;

PM Modi&nbsp;also saluted the soldiers, police forces as well as the citizens and said in his speech, "There were problems of food security, war, terrorism, natural calamities but India marched forward against all odds. Our nation has proved we have inherent strength coming from our diversity. My understanding of spirit of India made me realise that for New India we needed to ensure inclusive development." He added, "Any nation that has progressed, has discipline ingrained in its citizens; if all follow their responsibilities, India will grow fast."

On Monday (August 15), India is celebrating 75 years of Independence from the British Raj. The country had attained freedom on August 15, 1947 (it is the 75th anniversary of India's independence, but it is still the 76th Independence Day).

On Monday (August 15), India is celebrating 75 years of Independence from the British Raj. The country had attained freedom on August 15, 1947 (it is the 75th anniversary of India's independence, but it is still the 76th Independence Day). Each year, the landmark day is celebrated with full enthusiasm across the nation. As India have dived deep into celebrations and are recalling their freedom fighters who fought for the country, sporting fraternity members have taken to their official Twitter handles to pour wishes on a historic day. The likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Virender Sehwag, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Sania Mirza, Bajrang Punia, Mirabai Chanu and many others have joined the bandwagon in wishing the countrymen on Monday morning. Here are some of the reactions from the country's superstar athletes: 75 glorious years. Proud to be an Indian. Happy Independence Day to all. Jai Hind. 🇮🇳 — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) August 15, 2022 × ALSO READ | India's 76th Independence Day celebrations: Everything PM Modi said in his speech #NewProfilePic pic.twitter.com/RXgvSv41Vo — zaheer khan (@ImZaheer) August 14, 2022 × न पूछो ज़माने को के क्या मेरी कहानी है, हमारी पहचान तो बस इतनी है कि हम हिंदुस्तानी है | हर करम अपना करेंगे ए वतन तेरे लिए दिल दिया है…जां भी देंगे ऐ वतन तेरे लिए!! #स्वतंत्रतादिवस की आप सभी को अनेक शुभकामनाएँ । pic.twitter.com/lBu7IC0xqe — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) August 15, 2022 × 75 years of independence. स्वतंत्रता दिवस की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/5KlQA3Y87d — Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) August 15, 2022 × #NewProfilePic pic.twitter.com/SvOvuIvm55 — Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) August 14, 2022 × ALSO READ | Explained: Is Indian flag unfurled or hoisted on Independence day? What's the difference? Happy Independence Day 🇮🇳 75 glorious years .. pic.twitter.com/zNcsNSpA9V — Sania Mirza (@MirzaSania) August 14, 2022 × Thousands laid down their lives so that our country breaths this day. never forget their sacrifice. Happy Independence Day 🇮🇳🇮🇳#harghartiranga🇮🇳 #HarGharTiranga pic.twitter.com/N8YGoBCZ8U — sreejesh p r (@16Sreejesh) August 15, 2022 × Playing for India was a dream and also a huge responsibility to give my best for the nation. It was a proud feeling that I'll always cherish. As our nation completes 75 years of independence, let's strive harder to reach new heights. #IndiaAt75 #IndependenceDay2022 pic.twitter.com/M6EVisDeLW — Mithali Raj (@M_Raj03) August 15, 2022 × May the glory of our Nation live forever! Wishing love, peace and prosperity to everyone on the occasion of Independence Day. Proud to be an Indian. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳#IndependenceDay2022 #IndiaAt75 pic.twitter.com/pyxolNVCDr — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) August 15, 2022 × सारे जहाँ से अच्छा हिन्दोस्ताँ हमारा हम बुलबुलें हैं इस की ये गुलसिताँ हमारा! Happy Independence day to my fellow Indians all around the world 🇮🇳 😊 #IndependenceDay2022 pic.twitter.com/jaaMV4hq1X — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) August 15, 2022 × Happy Independence Day to all. Jai Hind 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/eaEQjfdTK6 — Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) August 15, 2022 × सभी देशवासियों को #स्वतंत्रतादिवस की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं। जय हिंद जय भारत ! #hargharTiranga pic.twitter.com/QgC3JHbrA4 — Bajrang Punia 🇮🇳 (@BajrangPunia) August 15, 2022 × On the historic occasion, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag at the Red Fort, New Delhi on Monday morning. In addition, he paid tributes to freedom fighters such as Tatya Tope, Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqullah Khan who fought hard to free the country from the Britishers. PM Modi also saluted the soldiers, police forces as well as the citizens and said in his speech, "There were problems of food security, war, terrorism, natural calamities but India marched forward against all odds. Our nation has proved we have inherent strength coming from our diversity. My understanding of spirit of India made me realise that for New India we needed to ensure inclusive development." He added, "Any nation that has progressed, has discipline ingrained in its citizens; if all follow their responsibilities, India will grow fast."

From Virat Kohli to Mirabai Chanu: Sporting icons wish countrymen on India's Independence Day

Despite the absence of sporting disciplines like shooting, tennis, archery and Greco-Roman wrestling, India recorded a fabulous campaign at the Commonwealth Games 2022 as the athletes returned home with an impressive 61 medals. India dominated in wrestling and weightlifting at the Games, winning a total of 12 and 10 medals in two sporting disciplines, respectively.

It was a year of some historic firsts for the Indian contingent at the Games as the country won a medal for the first time in lawn bowls. India also won their maiden Commonwealth Games medals in Steeplechase and race walk at Birmingham making it a memorable affair for the nation.

India's best-ever performance at the Commonwealth Games came in the 2010 games in New Delhi as the host nation. However, the country's impressive show in Birmingham can be a close second despite the medal tally being lesser than the 69 medals won in 2002 or 66 medals bagged in 2018.&nbsp;

In 2010, India had won a total of 49 medals in the sporting disciplines that were missing in the Birmingham Games this year. If these medals are removed from the overall tally of 101, we are left with 52 medals, including 17 golds which are way below India's tally this year.

India made their debut at the Commonwealth Games in 1934 and have since taken part in each edition of the showpiece event barring 1950, 1962 and 1986. The country has so far won a total of 564 medals with a staggering 134 medals in shooting. India recorded their best finish at the Games in 2010 when the country grabbed the second spot on the medals table.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pv-sindhu-bags-cwg-gold-a-look-at-all-major-achievements-of-the-ace-indian-shuttler-504909">PV Sindhu bags CWG gold: A look at all major achievements of the ace Indian shuttler</a>

Here is a look at India's performances at the Commonwealth Games over the years:

1934 - 12th&nbsp;

India made their debut at the Commonwealth Games in 1934 after missing the inaugural edition of the competition in 1930. Rashid Anwar won India's first medal at the Commonwealth Games in 1934 when he clinched bronze in wrestling.

1958 - 8th

India failed to win any medals at the 1938 Games in Sydney, Australia and the 1954 Games in Vancouver, Canada. Their medal drought came to an end in 1958 when India won two golds and a silver to finish 8th with a total of three medals. The legendary Milkha Singh won a gold medal in athletics while Lila Ram won gold in wrestling at the 1958 Games.

1966 - 8th

India once again finished 8th at the Commonwealth Games in Kingston, Jamaica in 1966. However, the country managed to reach double figures for the first time as far as the medal tally was concerned. India won ten medals at the 1966 Games, including 3 gold medals.

1970 - 6th

India further improved their rankings in the 1970 Commonwealth Games as the Indian athletes produced a better show in Edinburgh, Scotland. Indian athletes returned home with a total of 12 medals, including 5 gold medals as the country finished 6th on the medals table.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-pv-sindhu-to-lakshya-sen-how-indian-shuttlers-roared-and-inspired-at-cwg-2022-505288">From PV Sindhu, Lakshya Sen to mixed team's silver: How Indian shuttlers roared and inspired at CWG 2022</a>

1974 - 6th

India once again finished sixth on the medals table with 15 medals at the Commonwealth Games in 1974, in Christchurch, New Zealand. Indian athletes won four gold medals, and 8 silver medals in the competition.

1978 - 6th&nbsp;

India remained on the 6th spot once again at the Commonwealth Games 1978 in Edmonton, Canada with a tally of 15 medals at the showpiece event. Indian athletes won 5 gold medals, 5 silver and 5 bronze medals at the Games.

1982 - 6th&nbsp;

India's love affair with a sixth-place finish at the Commonwealth Games continued in 1982 as the country once again failed to break into the top five in Brisbane, Australia. Indian athletes returned home with a total of 16 medals, one more than the 1978 Games, including five gold medals.

1990 - 5th

India managed to break into the top five for the first time at the Commonwealth Games in 1990 when the country won an impressive 32 medals at the Games, including 13 gold medals. It was the first time, India managed to go past the 30-medals mark in the history of the Commonwealth Games. India dominated in weightlifting and shooting at the Games.

1994 - 6th

India dropped to the sixth spot once again on the medals table at the 1994 Commonwealth Games in Victoria, Canada. India won a total of 24 medals in the competition, including 6 gold medals - less than half of their gold medal tally at the 1990 Games.

1998 - 7th

India's performance didn't improve much at the 1994 Commonwealth Games in Malaysia as the contingent returned home with a total of just 25 medals. India sipped further on the medals table to finish 7th at the Games.

2002 - 4th

The likes of Abhinav Bindra, Jaspal Rana, Kunjarani Devi and the Indian women's hockey team won gold medals in their respective sporting disciplines as India finished 4th with a total of 69 medals at the Commonwealth Games 2022, in Manchester, England. It was India's best-ever finish in the history of the Commonwealth Games at the time.

2006 - 4th

The Indian contingent continued its magnificent run at the Commonwealth Games in 2006, reaching the half-century mark once again in the medals tally. India won a total of 50 medals, including 22 gold medals at the showpiece event.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-pv-sindhu-co-to-lawn-bowls-memorable-run-indias-top-5-performances-in-cwg22-506572">India's top five&nbsp;performances in Commonwealth Games 2022</a>

2010 - 2nd

India's inspiring run continued at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi. As the hosts, India delivered their best-ever performance in the Commonwealth Games history to breach the 100-medal mark for the first time and finish 2nd. India won a total of 101 medals at the Games, including a staggering 38 gold medals. India have never managed to reach 100 medals at the Games since 2010.

2014 - 5th

India dropped to the 5th spot at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland with a total of 64 medals in the competition. India managed to win only 15 gold medals at the 2014 Games.

2018 - 3rd

Indian athletes impressed once again at the Commonwealth Games 2018 in Gold Coast, Australia. India finished 3rd on the medals table with 66 medals, including 22 gold medals at the multi-sporting event. The likes of Mirabai Chanu, Neeraj Chopra, Sushil Kumar, and Manika Batra among others won gold medals in their respective categories in the 2018 Games.

2022 - 4th

India finished 4th at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham this year with a total of 61 medals, including 22 gold medals. It was a commendable performance by the Indian contingent as a number of sporting disciplines like shooting, tennis and archery were not part of the Games. The likes of PV Sindhu, Mirabai Chanu, Nikhat Zareen and Bajrang Punia among others won gold medals at the 2022 Games.

Despite the absence of sporting disciplines like shooting, tennis, archery and Greco-Roman wrestling, India recorded a fabulous campaign at the Commonwealth Games 2022 as the athletes returned home with an impressive 61 medals.

Despite the absence of sporting disciplines like shooting, tennis, archery and Greco-Roman wrestling, India recorded a fabulous campaign at the Commonwealth Games 2022 as the athletes returned home with an impressive 61 medals. India dominated in wrestling and weightlifting at the Games, winning a total of 12 and 10 medals in two sporting disciplines, respectively. It was a year of some historic firsts for the Indian contingent at the Games as the country won a medal for the first time in lawn bowls. India also won their maiden Commonwealth Games medals in Steeplechase and race walk at Birmingham making it a memorable affair for the nation. India's best-ever performance at the Commonwealth Games came in the 2010 games in New Delhi as the host nation. However, the country's impressive show in Birmingham can be a close second despite the medal tally being lesser than the 69 medals won in 2002 or 66 medals bagged in 2018. In 2010, India had won a total of 49 medals in the sporting disciplines that were missing in the Birmingham Games this year. If these medals are removed from the overall tally of 101, we are left with 52 medals, including 17 golds which are way below India's tally this year. India made their debut at the Commonwealth Games in 1934 and have since taken part in each edition of the showpiece event barring 1950, 1962 and 1986. The country has so far won a total of 564 medals with a staggering 134 medals in shooting. India recorded their best finish at the Games in 2010 when the country grabbed the second spot on the medals table. Also Read: PV Sindhu bags CWG gold: A look at all major achievements of the ace Indian shuttler Here is a look at India's performances at the Commonwealth Games over the years: 1934 - 12th India made their debut at the Commonwealth Games in 1934 after missing the inaugural edition of the competition in 1930. Rashid Anwar won India's first medal at the Commonwealth Games in 1934 when he clinched bronze in wrestling. 1958 - 8th India failed to win any medals at the 1938 Games in Sydney, Australia and the 1954 Games in Vancouver, Canada. Their medal drought came to an end in 1958 when India won two golds and a silver to finish 8th with a total of three medals. The legendary Milkha Singh won a gold medal in athletics while Lila Ram won gold in wrestling at the 1958 Games. 1966 - 8th India once again finished 8th at the Commonwealth Games in Kingston, Jamaica in 1966. However, the country managed to reach double figures for the first time as far as the medal tally was concerned. India won ten medals at the 1966 Games, including 3 gold medals. 1970 - 6th India further improved their rankings in the 1970 Commonwealth Games as the Indian athletes produced a better show in Edinburgh, Scotland. Indian athletes returned home with a total of 12 medals, including 5 gold medals as the country finished 6th on the medals table. Also Read: From PV Sindhu, Lakshya Sen to mixed team's silver: How Indian shuttlers roared and inspired at CWG 2022 1974 - 6th India once again finished sixth on the medals table with 15 medals at the Commonwealth Games in 1974, in Christchurch, New Zealand. Indian athletes won four gold medals, and 8 silver medals in the competition. 1978 - 6th India remained on the 6th spot once again at the Commonwealth Games 1978 in Edmonton, Canada with a tally of 15 medals at the showpiece event. Indian athletes won 5 gold medals, 5 silver and 5 bronze medals at the Games. 1982 - 6th India's love affair with a sixth-place finish at the Commonwealth Games continued in 1982 as the country once again failed to break into the top five in Brisbane, Australia. Indian athletes returned home with a total of 16 medals, one more than the 1978 Games, including five gold medals. 1990 - 5th India managed to break into the top five for the first time at the Commonwealth Games in 1990 when the country won an impressive 32 medals at the Games, including 13 gold medals. It was the first time, India managed to go past the 30-medals mark in the history of the Commonwealth Games. India dominated in weightlifting and shooting at the Games. 1994 - 6th India dropped to the sixth spot once again on the medals table at the 1994 Commonwealth Games in Victoria, Canada. India won a total of 24 medals in the competition, including 6 gold medals - less than half of their gold medal tally at the 1990 Games. 1998 - 7th India's performance didn't improve much at the 1994 Commonwealth Games in Malaysia as the contingent returned home with a total of just 25 medals. India sipped further on the medals table to finish 7th at the Games. 2002 - 4th The likes of Abhinav Bindra, Jaspal Rana, Kunjarani Devi and the Indian women's hockey team won gold medals in their respective sporting disciplines as India finished 4th with a total of 69 medals at the Commonwealth Games 2022, in Manchester, England. It was India's best-ever finish in the history of the Commonwealth Games at the time. 2006 - 4th The Indian contingent continued its magnificent run at the Commonwealth Games in 2006, reaching the half-century mark once again in the medals tally. India won a total of 50 medals, including 22 gold medals at the showpiece event. Also Read: India's top five performances in Commonwealth Games 2022 2010 - 2nd India's inspiring run continued at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi. As the hosts, India delivered their best-ever performance in the Commonwealth Games history to breach the 100-medal mark for the first time and finish 2nd. India won a total of 101 medals at the Games, including a staggering 38 gold medals. India have never managed to reach 100 medals at the Games since 2010. 2014 - 5th India dropped to the 5th spot at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland with a total of 64 medals in the competition. India managed to win only 15 gold medals at the 2014 Games. 2018 - 3rd Indian athletes impressed once again at the Commonwealth Games 2018 in Gold Coast, Australia. India finished 3rd on the medals table with 66 medals, including 22 gold medals at the multi-sporting event. The likes of Mirabai Chanu, Neeraj Chopra, Sushil Kumar, and Manika Batra among others won gold medals in their respective categories in the 2018 Games. 2022 - 4th India finished 4th at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham this year with a total of 61 medals, including 22 gold medals. It was a commendable performance by the Indian contingent as a number of sporting disciplines like shooting, tennis and archery were not part of the Games. The likes of PV Sindhu, Mirabai Chanu, Nikhat Zareen and Bajrang Punia among others won gold medals at the 2022 Games.

Comparing India's medal tally at the Commonwealth Games over the years

The Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2022 edition came to an end on Monday (August 08) in Birmingham. The just-concluded edition was keenly awaited after Team India's heroics in Tokyo Olympics last year. The entire Indian contingent was filled with superstar athletes and the countrymen had high hopes and expectations from many star athletes.&nbsp;

India did not disappoint and returned with a staggering 61 medals --&nbsp;22 gold, 16 silver, 23 bronze to end at the fourth position with Australia, England and Canada finishing at the first, second and third positions respectively. Here's a look at the top-ten ranked sides after the end of CWG'22:

<img alt="CWG 2022 final rankings" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="917451a7-aa6d-47f2-9c2c-9e9b288aa5a2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/CWG%202022%20rankings.png" />

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwg-2022-indian-mens-hockey-team-suffer-humiliating-7-0-defeat-against-australia-in-final-settle-for-silver-504850">CWG 2022: Indian men's hockey team suffer humiliating 7-0 defeat against Australia in final, settle for silver</a>

Talking about India's overall campaign, it was raining medals for the country with the likes of Mirabai Chanu (gold), PV Sindhu (gold), Manpreet Singh-led Indian men's and Savita Punia-led women's team, Indian women's cricket team, Sharath Kamal (gold), Bajrang Punia (gold), Lakshya Sen (gold), Kidambi Srikanth and many other big names ensuring a podium finish. Among all sports, wrestling was India's most successful at CWG 2022 with as many as 12 medals. For the unversed, all 12 wrestlers had&nbsp;returned with medals in Gold Coast 2018 and the squad has managed to replicate its heroics this time around as well.&nbsp;

India's nemesis Australia denied the women's cricket team and the men's hockey team of winning a gold medal each as both sides settled for a second-spot finish. Meanwhile, India's 2018 medal-tally was 66 (26 gold medals, 20 silver medals, and 20 bronze medals) and, thus, the country ended with five fewer medals with&nbsp;shooting -- which was one of the&nbsp;strongest disciplines for the contingent in 2018 -- not being part of CWG'22. In addition, Neeraj Chopra's absence hurt the Indian team. Given his form, he was very likely to end with gold or silver.

The Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2022 edition came to an end on Monday (August 08) in Birmingham. The just-concluded edition was keenly awaited after Team India's heroics in Tokyo Olympics last year.

The Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2022 edition came to an end on Monday (August 08) in Birmingham. The just-concluded edition was keenly awaited after Team India's heroics in Tokyo Olympics last year. The entire Indian contingent was filled with superstar athletes and the countrymen had high hopes and expectations from many star athletes. India did not disappoint and returned with a staggering 61 medals -- 22 gold, 16 silver, 23 bronze to end at the fourth position with Australia, England and Canada finishing at the first, second and third positions respectively. Here's a look at the top-ten ranked sides after the end of CWG'22: ALSO READ | CWG 2022: Indian men's hockey team suffer humiliating 7-0 defeat against Australia in final, settle for silver Talking about India's overall campaign, it was raining medals for the country with the likes of Mirabai Chanu (gold), PV Sindhu (gold), Manpreet Singh-led Indian men's and Savita Punia-led women's team, Indian women's cricket team, Sharath Kamal (gold), Bajrang Punia (gold), Lakshya Sen (gold), Kidambi Srikanth and many other big names ensuring a podium finish. Among all sports, wrestling was India's most successful at CWG 2022 with as many as 12 medals. For the unversed, all 12 wrestlers had returned with medals in Gold Coast 2018 and the squad has managed to replicate its heroics this time around as well. India's nemesis Australia denied the women's cricket team and the men's hockey team of winning a gold medal each as both sides settled for a second-spot finish. Meanwhile, India's 2018 medal-tally was 66 (26 gold medals, 20 silver medals, and 20 bronze medals) and, thus, the country ended with five fewer medals with shooting -- which was one of the strongest disciplines for the contingent in 2018 -- not being part of CWG'22. In addition, Neeraj Chopra's absence hurt the Indian team. Given his form, he was very likely to end with gold or silver.

CWG 2022: Indian contingent shines, ends campaign at fourth slot with a staggering 61 medals

It is raining golds for India at the 2022 Birmingham Games. On Day 8 of the tournament, former Asian and Commonwealth Games winner Bajrang Punia established his superiority in the men`s freestyle 65kg division, winning the gold medal by beating Lachlan McNeil of Canada 9-2 in the final on Friday. 
 
Tokyo Olympic bronze medallist Punia, who won a gold medal four years ago in Gold Coast, Australia came out with aggressive intentions and did not allow his young Canadian opponent many chances, forcing two takedowns in the first period itself to go 4-0 up. 
 
The Canadian was a bit too defensive in the first period but launched a good attack at the start of the second period to reduce the margin to 2-4. But Punia, a world no 1 in his division, was up to the task and effected two one-leg takedowns to widen the margin again. He got another point when he pushed his opponent out of the bout area with another one-leg hold.

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/commonwealth-games-2022-explained-why-all-wrestling-bouts-got-delayed-on-day-8-in-birmingham-504058">Commonwealth Games 2022: EXPLAINED! Why all wrestling bouts got delayed on Day 8 in Birmingham</a> 
 
With a few seconds remaining, the 27-year-old Indian wrapped up the bout with another takedown to seal a 9-2 victory and claimed the gold medal in an authoritative manner. 
 
"I am very happy with my performance here. I had come here to win the gold medal and did that. It's nice to win the gold medal because I am participating in an event of this stature for the first time after coming back from an injury I suffered during the Tokyo Olympics," Punia said after his victory. 
 
Asked if did he intentionally go into attacking mode from the start, Punia said he had promised his fans to bring back his attacking style of 2017 and this is part of his process to get back to that style.&nbsp; 
 
WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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It is raining golds for India at the 2022 Birmingham Games. On Day 8 of the tournament, former Asian and Commonwealth Games winner Bajrang Punia established his superiority in the men`s freestyle 65kg division, winning the gold medal by beating Lachlan McNeil of Canada 9-2 in the final on Friday.

It is raining golds for India at the 2022 Birmingham Games. On Day 8 of the tournament, former Asian and Commonwealth Games winner Bajrang Punia established his superiority in the men`s freestyle 65kg division, winning the gold medal by beating Lachlan McNeil of Canada 9-2 in the final on Friday. Tokyo Olympic bronze medallist Punia, who won a gold medal four years ago in Gold Coast, Australia came out with aggressive intentions and did not allow his young Canadian opponent many chances, forcing two takedowns in the first period itself to go 4-0 up. The Canadian was a bit too defensive in the first period but launched a good attack at the start of the second period to reduce the margin to 2-4. But Punia, a world no 1 in his division, was up to the task and effected two one-leg takedowns to widen the margin again. He got another point when he pushed his opponent out of the bout area with another one-leg hold. Read More: Commonwealth Games 2022: EXPLAINED! Why all wrestling bouts got delayed on Day 8 in Birmingham With a few seconds remaining, the 27-year-old Indian wrapped up the bout with another takedown to seal a 9-2 victory and claimed the gold medal in an authoritative manner. "I am very happy with my performance here. I had come here to win the gold medal and did that. It's nice to win the gold medal because I am participating in an event of this stature for the first time after coming back from an injury I suffered during the Tokyo Olympics," Punia said after his victory. Asked if did he intentionally go into attacking mode from the start, Punia said he had promised his fans to bring back his attacking style of 2017 and this is part of his process to get back to that style. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Commonwealth Games 2022: Bajrang Punia wins gold medal in the 65 kg category

Bajrang Punia claimed his second straight Commonwealth Games gold medal at the ongoing Games in Birmingham on Friday (August 06) after defeating Lachlan McNeil of Canada 9-2 in the final of the men's freestyle 65kg category. It was a comfortable victory for the star Indian wrestler, who is on his way to becoming one of the country's most successful wrestlers.

Punia was always a favourite to win a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games this year as he has been in terrific form on the mat over the last few years. He lived up to his favourite tag in the final on Sunday and successfully defended his title to bag his second straight gold medal at the Games.

However, the Tokyo Olympics gold medallist played down the suggestions that it was an easy contest for him to dominate. Punia said nothing comes easy in life and that he never considers his opponent weak ahead of any match and wants to give his best.

"Nothing comes easy in life. You have to work hard for everything. I don’t come here thinking that my opponent is weak. In whatever contest I am in, I want to give my best performance," Punia was quoted as saying by India Today after his win over&nbsp;McNeil in the final on Friday.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cwg-2022-bajrang-punia-retains-gold-medal-with-aggressive-win-in-65kg-504134">Bajrang Punia wins gold medal in the 65 kg category at Commonwealth Games 2022</a>

Punia had suffered a knee injury during the Tokyo Olympics last year where he had to settle with a bronze medal. The Indian wrestler said he was looking to bounce back strongly at the Commonwealth Games this year and has been slowly regaining momentum after recovering from the injury.

"After the injury (knee injury at Tokyo Olympics and another one after it), I was searching for my best performance. I was working hard for it. I was not able to get things right in a couple of tournaments before. I have a feeling that I am getting back to my best and the hard work is paying off," Punia said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-controversy-erupts-as-savita-punias-save-ruled-out-after-clock-howler-in-india-australia-semi-final-504260">WATCH - Controversy erupts as Savita Punia's save ruled out after clock howler in India-Australia semi-final</a>

India won a total of six medals in wrestling on Friday as the wrestlers from the country opened their respective campaigns at the Commonwealth Games 2022. Out of the six medals, three were gold medals won by Punia, Sakshi Malik and Deepak Punia in their respective categories.

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Bajrang Punia claimed his second straight Commonwealth Games gold medal at the ongoing Games in Birmingham on Friday (August 06) after defeating Lachlan McNeil of Canada 9-2 in the final of the men's freestyle 65kg category.

Bajrang Punia claimed his second straight Commonwealth Games gold medal at the ongoing Games in Birmingham on Friday (August 06) after defeating Lachlan McNeil of Canada 9-2 in the final of the men's freestyle 65kg category. It was a comfortable victory for the star Indian wrestler, who is on his way to becoming one of the country's most successful wrestlers. Punia was always a favourite to win a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games this year as he has been in terrific form on the mat over the last few years. He lived up to his favourite tag in the final on Sunday and successfully defended his title to bag his second straight gold medal at the Games. However, the Tokyo Olympics gold medallist played down the suggestions that it was an easy contest for him to dominate. Punia said nothing comes easy in life and that he never considers his opponent weak ahead of any match and wants to give his best. "Nothing comes easy in life. You have to work hard for everything. I don’t come here thinking that my opponent is weak. In whatever contest I am in, I want to give my best performance," Punia was quoted as saying by India Today after his win over McNeil in the final on Friday. Also Read: Bajrang Punia wins gold medal in the 65 kg category at Commonwealth Games 2022 Punia had suffered a knee injury during the Tokyo Olympics last year where he had to settle with a bronze medal. The Indian wrestler said he was looking to bounce back strongly at the Commonwealth Games this year and has been slowly regaining momentum after recovering from the injury. "After the injury (knee injury at Tokyo Olympics and another one after it), I was searching for my best performance. I was working hard for it. I was not able to get things right in a couple of tournaments before. I have a feeling that I am getting back to my best and the hard work is paying off," Punia said. Also Read: WATCH - Controversy erupts as Savita Punia's save ruled out after clock howler in India-Australia semi-final India won a total of six medals in wrestling on Friday as the wrestlers from the country opened their respective campaigns at the Commonwealth Games 2022. Out of the six medals, three were gold medals won by Punia, Sakshi Malik and Deepak Punia in their respective categories.

'Nothing comes easy in life': Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia after clinching 2nd successive gold in CWG

Indian contingent continues to inspire in the ongoing Commonwealth Games 2022 edition, being held in Birmingham, England. On Day 8, India's medal hopes were pinned on the wrestling squad -- comprising some big names such as Bajrang Punia, Deepak Punia, Sakshi Malik, etc.&nbsp;

Well, the majority of them have not disappointed as both Bajrang and Deepak have stormed into the final of their respective categories. Tokyo 2020 bronze medallist Bajrang&nbsp;registered&nbsp;an easy win by 'victory by fall' in his opening clash to proceed ahead and didn't break a sweat to reach the final courtesy of a big win over England's&nbsp;George Ramm of England&nbsp;via technical superiority (without any point achieved by his&nbsp;opponent).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/commonwealth-games-2022-explained-why-all-wrestling-bouts-got-delayed-on-day-8-in-birmingham-504058">Commonwealth Games 2022: EXPLAINED! Why all wrestling bouts got delayed on Day 8 in Birmingham</a>

Deepak also followed suit and joined Bajrang in the final after the&nbsp;World Championships silver medalist win in the men's 86kg category. Meanwhile, the women wrestlers also continued to shine and give plenty to cheer for the Indian fans back home with their performances. The likes of&nbsp;Sakshi Malik (62kg) and Anshu Malik (57kg) entered the summit clash whereas&nbsp;Divya Kakran (in 68kg) won her repechage bout and will now compete for bronze. In men's,&nbsp;the 22-year-old Mohit Grewal also conceded his match in&nbsp;the&nbsp;125kg category semi-final. Thus, he will now shift focus to compete for a third-spot finish.&nbsp;

Among others, the likes of PV Sindhu and Kidambi Srikanth have also moved into the quarter-finals in the badminton singles category, after the mixed team fetched silver early this week. Thus, a lot more medals are in store for Team India in the remaining days of CWG 2022.

Indian contingent continues to inspire in the ongoing Commonwealth Games 2022 edition, being held in Birmingham, England. On Day 8, India's medal hopes were pinned on the wrestling squad -- comprising some big names such as Bajrang Punia, Deepak Punia, Sakshi Malik, etc.

Indian contingent continues to inspire in the ongoing Commonwealth Games 2022 edition, being held in Birmingham, England. On Day 8, India's medal hopes were pinned on the wrestling squad -- comprising some big names such as Bajrang Punia, Deepak Punia, Sakshi Malik, etc. Well, the majority of them have not disappointed as both Bajrang and Deepak have stormed into the final of their respective categories. Tokyo 2020 bronze medallist Bajrang registered an easy win by 'victory by fall' in his opening clash to proceed ahead and didn't break a sweat to reach the final courtesy of a big win over England's George Ramm of England via technical superiority (without any point achieved by his opponent). ALSO READ | Commonwealth Games 2022: EXPLAINED! Why all wrestling bouts got delayed on Day 8 in Birmingham Deepak also followed suit and joined Bajrang in the final after the World Championships silver medalist win in the men's 86kg category. Meanwhile, the women wrestlers also continued to shine and give plenty to cheer for the Indian fans back home with their performances. The likes of Sakshi Malik (62kg) and Anshu Malik (57kg) entered the summit clash whereas Divya Kakran (in 68kg) won her repechage bout and will now compete for bronze. In men's, the 22-year-old Mohit Grewal also conceded his match in the 125kg category semi-final. Thus, he will now shift focus to compete for a third-spot finish. Among others, the likes of PV Sindhu and Kidambi Srikanth have also moved into the quarter-finals in the badminton singles category, after the mixed team fetched silver early this week. Thus, a lot more medals are in store for Team India in the remaining days of CWG 2022.

CWG 2022: Wrestlers' impressive run continues! Bajrang, Deepak Punia to compete for gold

The Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2022 edition continues to live upto expectations with plenty of action and drama with each passing day. On Day 8 of the marquee event, in Birmingham, an unexpected incident took place which led to a delay in all wrestling bouts.&nbsp;

For the unversed, all wrestling bouts were put on hold on Friday (August 05) due to an alleged security breach at the Conventry Arena. The wrestling matches were&nbsp;delayed by an hour after a speaker fell at the venue. After this, organisers decided to check the entire system in a bid to prevent the incident from taking place once again.

"All are safe, they are just rechecking the whole system to avoid any untoward incident," a coach was quoted saying to News agency PTI. "We're taking a short pause for a safety check and will resume action once we receive the go-ahead," said Union World Wrestling on their Twitter account.

This happened soon after Indian stars Bajrang&nbsp;and Deepak Punia&nbsp;earned dominating victories in their respective categories to kickoff&nbsp;their campaigns in style. While Bajrang notched up an easy win by 'victory by fall', the 23-year-old Deepak emerged on top due to technical superiority.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwg-2022-wrestler-bajrang-punia-qualifies-for-quarterfinal-in-65-kg-category-with-dominant-win-503980">CWG 2022: Wrestler Bajrang Punia qualifies for quarterfinal in 65 kg category with dominant win</a>

Tokyo Olympic bronze medallist Bajrang was at his usual best as he required less than two minutes to move to the 65kg quarterfinals at the&nbsp;Games in Birmingham, knocking out&nbsp;Naurau's Lowe Bingham in his opening bout.

Talking about India's medal contenders in action on Day 8, the likes of PV Sindhu, Kidambi Srikanth, Hima Das, women's hockey team, etc are also in action. Srikanth and Sindhu have qualified for the quarter-finals.&nbsp;

Bajrang, meanwhile, will next face Mauritius' Jean Guyliane Joris Bandou. Among the women wrestlers,&nbsp;Anshu Malik (57kg), Sakshi Malik (62kg) and Divya Kakran (68kg) will also be keen on adding to the country's medal tally.

The Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2022 edition continues to live upto expectations with plenty of action and drama with each passing day. On Day 8 of the marquee event, in Birmingham, an unexpected incident took place which led to a delay in all wrestling bouts.

The Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2022 edition continues to live upto expectations with plenty of action and drama with each passing day. On Day 8 of the marquee event, in Birmingham, an unexpected incident took place which led to a delay in all wrestling bouts. For the unversed, all wrestling bouts were put on hold on Friday (August 05) due to an alleged security breach at the Conventry Arena. The wrestling matches were delayed by an hour after a speaker fell at the venue. After this, organisers decided to check the entire system in a bid to prevent the incident from taking place once again. "All are safe, they are just rechecking the whole system to avoid any untoward incident," a coach was quoted saying to News agency PTI. "We're taking a short pause for a safety check and will resume action once we receive the go-ahead," said Union World Wrestling on their Twitter account. This happened soon after Indian stars Bajrang and Deepak Punia earned dominating victories in their respective categories to kickoff their campaigns in style. While Bajrang notched up an easy win by 'victory by fall', the 23-year-old Deepak emerged on top due to technical superiority. ALSO READ | CWG 2022: Wrestler Bajrang Punia qualifies for quarterfinal in 65 kg category with dominant win Tokyo Olympic bronze medallist Bajrang was at his usual best as he required less than two minutes to move to the 65kg quarterfinals at the Games in Birmingham, knocking out Naurau's Lowe Bingham in his opening bout. Talking about India's medal contenders in action on Day 8, the likes of PV Sindhu, Kidambi Srikanth, Hima Das, women's hockey team, etc are also in action. Srikanth and Sindhu have qualified for the quarter-finals. Bajrang, meanwhile, will next face Mauritius' Jean Guyliane Joris Bandou. Among the women wrestlers, Anshu Malik (57kg), Sakshi Malik (62kg) and Divya Kakran (68kg) will also be keen on adding to the country's medal tally.

Commonwealth Games 2022: EXPLAINED! Why all wrestling bouts got delayed on Day 8 in Birmingham

Star Indian wrestler and Olympic medalist Bajrang Punia entered the quarterfinal of the men’s 65 kg category after defeating Lowe Bingham of Nauru in his campaign opener at the ongoing Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham on Friday. Punia was extremely dominant in his match and scored a 5-0 win in a bout that lasted for one minute and 47 seconds. He scored the win via fall. In the quarterfinal, Punia will take on Jean Guyliane Joris Bandou of Mauritius later today.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwg22-history-made-murali-sreeshankar-attains-big-feat-with-silver-medal-in-mens-long-jump-503899">CWG'22: History made! Murali Sreeshankar attains BIG feat with silver medal in men's long jump</a>

Indian wrestling contingent will start its campaign at Commonwealth Games 2022 from today. Here are the rest of the wrestlers who will be competing today:- Deepak Punia vs TBD - Men’s Freestyle 86 KG (Wrestling)-Anshu Malik vs TBD - Women’s Freestyle 57 KG (Wrestling)- Sakshi Malik vs TBD - Women’s Freestyle 62 KG (Wrestling)-Divya Kakran vs TBD - Women’s Freestyle 68 KG (Wrestling) - Mohit Grewal vs TBD - Men’s Freestyle 125 KG (Wrestling). Wrestling will have all the following repechage and medal games on the same day. Commonwealth Games 2022 started in Birmingham on July 28 and will go on till August 8.&nbsp;

Star Indian wrestler and Olympic medalist Bajrang Punia entered the quarterfinal of the men’s 65 kg category after defeating Lowe Bingham of Nauru in his campaign opener at the ongoing Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham on Friday.

Star Indian wrestler and Olympic medalist Bajrang Punia entered the quarterfinal of the men’s 65 kg category after defeating Lowe Bingham of Nauru in his campaign opener at the ongoing Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham on Friday. Punia was extremely dominant in his match and scored a 5-0 win in a bout that lasted for one minute and 47 seconds. He scored the win via fall. In the quarterfinal, Punia will take on Jean Guyliane Joris Bandou of Mauritius later today. ALSO READ | CWG'22: History made! Murali Sreeshankar attains BIG feat with silver medal in men's long jump Indian wrestling contingent will start its campaign at Commonwealth Games 2022 from today. Here are the rest of the wrestlers who will be competing today:- Deepak Punia vs TBD - Men’s Freestyle 86 KG (Wrestling)-Anshu Malik vs TBD - Women’s Freestyle 57 KG (Wrestling)- Sakshi Malik vs TBD - Women’s Freestyle 62 KG (Wrestling)-Divya Kakran vs TBD - Women’s Freestyle 68 KG (Wrestling) - Mohit Grewal vs TBD - Men’s Freestyle 125 KG (Wrestling). Wrestling will have all the following repechage and medal games on the same day. Commonwealth Games 2022 started in Birmingham on July 28 and will go on till August 8.

CWG 2022: Wrestler Bajrang Punia qualifies for quarterfinal in 65 kg category with dominant win

The Commonwealth Games 2022 edition is set to get underway on July 29 (Friday) in Birmingham, England. The forthcoming edition has been keenly awaited by many Indian sports fanatics, especially after seeing the Indian contingnent's performance in the last year's Tokyo Olympics.

Team India is a strong squad comprising several star athletes, such as PV Sindhu, Manpreet Singh-led India men's hockey team and Savita Punia's women's hockey line-up, Lakshya Sen, Kidambi Srikanth, Manika Batra, Mirabai Chanu, Lovlina Borgohain, Bajrang Punia, etc.

Neeraj Chopra, India's star javelin thrower, misses out due to a groin injury, nonetheless, there is enough firepower in the Indian contingent to impress in the upcoming event in Birmingham. Ahead of the opening ceremony, to be held&nbsp;at the Alexander Stadium, Indian Olympic Association (IOA) named Sindhu as the flagbearer, followed by Manpreet Singh.

Being handed over such a huge responsibility, Sindhu said after the announcement on Wednesday (July 27), "It's a great honour to be bestowed with the responsibility to lead the contingent and hold the flag at such an august gathering. I'm extremely happy and I wish all my fellow contingent all the best for the Games. I would like to thank IOA also for choosing me as the flag-bearer."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/commonwealth-games-2022-when-and-where-to-watch-live-streaming-of-opening-ceremony-501354">Commonwealth Games 2022: When and where to watch live streaming of opening ceremony?</a>

<h2>Full schedule for CWG'22 for Indian star athletes&nbsp;(by sport)</h2>

<h2>Athletics</h2>

July 30:&nbsp;Nitender Rawat (Men’s Marathon)

August 2:&nbsp;

Avinash Sable (Men’s 3000m Steeplechase)

Murali Sreeshankar (Men’s Long Jump)

Muhammed Anees Yahiya (Men’s Long Jump)

Dhanalakshmi Sekar (Women’s 100m)

Jyothi Yarraji (Women’s 100m hurdles)

Manpreet Kaur (Women’s Shot Put)

Navjeet Kaur Dhillon (Women’s Discus Throw)

August 3:&nbsp;

Aishwarya B (Women’s Triple Jump)

August 5:&nbsp;

Abdulla Aboobacker (Men’s Triple Jump)

Praveen Chithravel (Men’s Triple Jump)

Eldhose Paul (Men’s Triple Jump)

DP Manu (Men’s Javelin Throw)

Rohit Yadav (Men’s Javelin Throw)

Sandeep Kumar (Men’s 10km race walk)

Amit Khatri (Men’s 10km race walk)

Aishwarya B (Women’s Long Jump)

Ancy Sojan (Women’s Long Jump)

Annu Rani (Women’s Javelin Throw)

Shilpa Rani (Women’s Javelin Throw)

Manju Bala Singh (Women’s Hammer Throw)

Sarita Romit Singh (Women’s Hammer Throw)

August 6:&nbsp;

Amoj Jacob (Men’s 4x400m relay)

Noah Nirmal Tom (Men’s 4x400m relay)

Arokia Rajiv (Men’s 4x400m relay)

Muhammed Ajmal (Men’s 4x400m relay)

Naganathan Pandi (Men’s 4x400m relay)

Rajesh Ramesh (Men’s 4x400m relay)

Bhawna Jat (Women’s 10km race walk)

Priyanka Goswami (Women’s 10km race walk)

Hima Das (Women’s 4x100m relay)

Dutee Chand (Women’s 4x100m relay)

Srabani Nanda (Women’s 4x100m relay)

MV Jilna (Women’s 4x100m relay)

NS Simi (Women’s 4x100m relay)

<h2>Badminton</h2>

July 29:&nbsp;

Ashwini Ponnappa (Mixed Doubles)

B Sumeeth Reddy (Mixed Doubles)

August 3:&nbsp;

PV Sindhu (Women’s Singles)

Aakarshi Kashyap (Women’s Singles)

Lakshya Sen (Men’s Singles)

Kidambi Srikanth (Men’s Singles)

August 4:&nbsp;

Treesa Jolly (Women’s Doubles)

Gayatri Gopichand (Women’s Doubles)

Satwiksairaj Rankireddy (Men’s Doubles)

Chirag Shetty (Men’s Doubles)

<h2>Boxing</h2>

July 30:&nbsp;Amit Panghal (Men’s 51kg)

Mohammad Hussamuddin (Men’s 57kg)

Shiva Thapa (Men’s 63.5kg)

Rohit Tokas (Men’s 67kg)

Sumit Kundu (Men’s 75kg)

Ashish Chaudhary (Men’s 80kg)

Sanjeet (Men’s 92kg)

Sagar (Men’s 92+kg)

Nitu (Women’s 48kg)

Nikhat Zareen (Women’s 50kg)

Jasmine (Women’s 60kg)

Lovlina Borgohain (Women’s 70kg)

<h2>Cricket</h2>

July 29:&nbsp;India vs Australia

July 31:&nbsp;India vs Pakistan

August 3:&nbsp;India vs Barbados

<h2>Hockey&nbsp;</h2>

Men's

July 31:&nbsp;India vs Ghana

August 1:&nbsp;India vs England

August 3:&nbsp;India vs Canada

August 4:&nbsp;India vs Wales

Women’s

July 29:&nbsp;India vs Ghana

July 30:&nbsp;India vs Wales

August 2:&nbsp;India vs England

August 3:&nbsp;India vs Canada

<h2>Table Tennis</h2>

<h2>Men’s Team</h2>

July 29:&nbsp;Round 1 &amp; Round 2

July 30:&nbsp;Round 3

July 31:&nbsp;Quarterfinals

August 1:&nbsp;Semifinals

August 2:&nbsp;Finals

<h2>Women’s Team events Schedule</h2>

July 29:&nbsp;Round 1 &amp; Round 2

July 30:&nbsp;Round 3

July 30:&nbsp;Quarterfinals

July 31:&nbsp;Semifinals

August 1:&nbsp;Finals

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-a-great-honour-pv-sindhu-reacts-after-olympic-medallist-named-indias-flagbearer-at-cwg-2022-501228">'It's a great honour' - PV Sindhu reacts after Olympic medallist named India's flagbearer at CWG 2022</a>

<h2>Weightlifting</h2>

July 30:&nbsp;

Mirabai Chanu (Women’s 55kg)

Sanket Mahadev (Men’s 55kg)

Chanambam Rishikanta Singh (Men’s 55kg)

July 31:&nbsp;

Bindyarani Devi (Women’s 59kg)

Jeremy Lalrinnunga (Men’s 67kg)

Achinta Sheuli (Men’s 73kg)

August 1:&nbsp;

Popy Hazarika (Women’s 64kg)

Ajay Singh (Men’s 81kg)

August 2:&nbsp;

Usha Kumara (Women’s 87kg)

Purnima Pandey (Women’s 87+kg)

Vikas Thakur (Men’s 96kg)

Ragala Venkat Rahul (Men’s 96kg)

<h2>Wrestling</h2>

August 5:&nbsp;

Bajrang Punia (Men’s 65kg)

Deepak Punia (Men’s 86kg)

Mohit Grewal (Men’s 125kg)

Anshu Malik (Women’s 57kg)

Sakshi Malik (Women’s 62kg)

Divya Kakran (Women’s 68kg)

How many medals will the Indian contingent return with? Only time will tell...

The Commonwealth Games 2022 edition is set to get underway on July 29 (Friday) in Birmingham, England. The forthcoming edition has been keenly awaited by many Indian sports fanatics, especially after seeing the Indian contingnent's performance in the last year's Tokyo Olympics.

The Commonwealth Games 2022 edition is set to get underway on July 29 (Friday) in Birmingham, England. The forthcoming edition has been keenly awaited by many Indian sports fanatics, especially after seeing the Indian contingnent's performance in the last year's Tokyo Olympics. Team India is a strong squad comprising several star athletes, such as PV Sindhu, Manpreet Singh-led India men's hockey team and Savita Punia's women's hockey line-up, Lakshya Sen, Kidambi Srikanth, Manika Batra, Mirabai Chanu, Lovlina Borgohain, Bajrang Punia, etc. Neeraj Chopra, India's star javelin thrower, misses out due to a groin injury, nonetheless, there is enough firepower in the Indian contingent to impress in the upcoming event in Birmingham. Ahead of the opening ceremony, to be held at the Alexander Stadium, Indian Olympic Association (IOA) named Sindhu as the flagbearer, followed by Manpreet Singh. Being handed over such a huge responsibility, Sindhu said after the announcement on Wednesday (July 27), "It's a great honour to be bestowed with the responsibility to lead the contingent and hold the flag at such an august gathering. I'm extremely happy and I wish all my fellow contingent all the best for the Games. I would like to thank IOA also for choosing me as the flag-bearer." ALSO READ | Commonwealth Games 2022: When and where to watch live streaming of opening ceremony? Full schedule for CWG'22 for Indian star athletes (by sport) Athletics July 30: Nitender Rawat (Men’s Marathon) August 2: Avinash Sable (Men’s 3000m Steeplechase) Murali Sreeshankar (Men’s Long Jump) Muhammed Anees Yahiya (Men’s Long Jump) Dhanalakshmi Sekar (Women’s 100m) Jyothi Yarraji (Women’s 100m hurdles) Manpreet Kaur (Women’s Shot Put) Navjeet Kaur Dhillon (Women’s Discus Throw) August 3: Aishwarya B (Women’s Triple Jump) August 5: Abdulla Aboobacker (Men’s Triple Jump) Praveen Chithravel (Men’s Triple Jump) Eldhose Paul (Men’s Triple Jump) DP Manu (Men’s Javelin Throw) Rohit Yadav (Men’s Javelin Throw) Sandeep Kumar (Men’s 10km race walk) Amit Khatri (Men’s 10km race walk) Aishwarya B (Women’s Long Jump) Ancy Sojan (Women’s Long Jump) Annu Rani (Women’s Javelin Throw) Shilpa Rani (Women’s Javelin Throw) Manju Bala Singh (Women’s Hammer Throw) Sarita Romit Singh (Women’s Hammer Throw) August 6: Amoj Jacob (Men’s 4x400m relay) Noah Nirmal Tom (Men’s 4x400m relay) Arokia Rajiv (Men’s 4x400m relay) Muhammed Ajmal (Men’s 4x400m relay) Naganathan Pandi (Men’s 4x400m relay) Rajesh Ramesh (Men’s 4x400m relay) Bhawna Jat (Women’s 10km race walk) Priyanka Goswami (Women’s 10km race walk) Hima Das (Women’s 4x100m relay) Dutee Chand (Women’s 4x100m relay) Srabani Nanda (Women’s 4x100m relay) MV Jilna (Women’s 4x100m relay) NS Simi (Women’s 4x100m relay) Badminton July 29: Ashwini Ponnappa (Mixed Doubles) B Sumeeth Reddy (Mixed Doubles) August 3: PV Sindhu (Women’s Singles) Aakarshi Kashyap (Women’s Singles) Lakshya Sen (Men’s Singles) Kidambi Srikanth (Men’s Singles) August 4: Treesa Jolly (Women’s Doubles) Gayatri Gopichand (Women’s Doubles) Satwiksairaj Rankireddy (Men’s Doubles) Chirag Shetty (Men’s Doubles) Boxing July 30: Amit Panghal (Men’s 51kg) Mohammad Hussamuddin (Men’s 57kg) Shiva Thapa (Men’s 63.5kg) Rohit Tokas (Men’s 67kg) Sumit Kundu (Men’s 75kg) Ashish Chaudhary (Men’s 80kg) Sanjeet (Men’s 92kg) Sagar (Men’s 92+kg) Nitu (Women’s 48kg) Nikhat Zareen (Women’s 50kg) Jasmine (Women’s 60kg) Lovlina Borgohain (Women’s 70kg) Cricket July 29: India vs Australia July 31: India vs Pakistan August 3: India vs Barbados Hockey Men's July 31: India vs Ghana August 1: India vs England August 3: India vs Canada August 4: India vs Wales Women’s July 29: India vs Ghana July 30: India vs Wales August 2: India vs England August 3: India vs Canada Table Tennis Men’s Team July 29: Round 1 & Round 2 July 30: Round 3 July 31: Quarterfinals August 1: Semifinals August 2: Finals Women’s Team events Schedule July 29: Round 1 & Round 2 July 30: Round 3 July 30: Quarterfinals July 31: Semifinals August 1: Finals ALSO READ | 'It's a great honour' - PV Sindhu reacts after Olympic medallist named India's flagbearer at CWG 2022 Weightlifting July 30: Mirabai Chanu (Women’s 55kg) Sanket Mahadev (Men’s 55kg) Chanambam Rishikanta Singh (Men’s 55kg) July 31: Bindyarani Devi (Women’s 59kg) Jeremy Lalrinnunga (Men’s 67kg) Achinta Sheuli (Men’s 73kg) August 1: Popy Hazarika (Women’s 64kg) Ajay Singh (Men’s 81kg) August 2: Usha Kumara (Women’s 87kg) Purnima Pandey (Women’s 87+kg) Vikas Thakur (Men’s 96kg) Ragala Venkat Rahul (Men’s 96kg) Wrestling August 5: Bajrang Punia (Men’s 65kg) Deepak Punia (Men’s 86kg) Mohit Grewal (Men’s 125kg) Anshu Malik (Women’s 57kg) Sakshi Malik (Women’s 62kg) Divya Kakran (Women’s 68kg) How many medals will the Indian contingent return with? Only time will tell...

CWG 2022: From PV Sindhu to Bajrang Punia! Full schedule of Indian athletes in showpiece event

On Wednesday (July 27), PV Sindhu added another feather to her illustrious hat as the 27-year-old superstar shuttler has been named as India's flagbearer for the 2022 Commonwealth Games, to kick off in Birmingham on July 29.

It was touted to be a two-way battle between Neeraj Chopra and Sindhu for being the flagbearer before the shuttler was given the responsibility by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). Neeraj, for the unversed, has bowed out of the showpiece event due to a groin injury which he sustained during his silver-medal win in the men's javelin throw final at the recently-concluded World Atheltics Championships.

"It's a great honour to be bestowed with the responsibility to lead the contingent and hold the flag at such an august gathering. I'm extremely happy and I wish all my fellow contingent all the best for the Games. I would like to thank IOA also for choosing me as the flag-bearer," Sindhu said after the announcement here on Wednesday.

Sindhu was India's flagbearer at the last edition, in Gold Coast, where she returned with a silver medal in the women's singles. This time around, the two-time Olympic medallist will be eager to secure the elusive gold medal.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwg-2022-two-time-olympic-medallist-pv-sindhu-named-indias-flagbearer-for-opening-ceremony-501191">CWG 2022: Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu named India's flagbearer for opening ceremony</a>

"The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) is delighted to announce shuttler PV Sindhu, a two-time Olympic medallist, as the Flagbearer of Team India at the Opening Ceremony," the IOA had said in a statement.

"Two other highly deserving athletes were considered to be Team India's Flagbearer: weightlifter Ms Mirabai Chanu and boxer Ms Lovlina Borgohain, who are both Olympic medallists," it added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-time-for-india-to-win-elusive-gold-says-coach-graham-reid-as-manpreet-co-prepare-for-cwg22-501155">Exclusive: Time for India to win elusive gold, says coach Graham Reid as Manpreet &amp; Co. prepare for CWG'22</a>

Despite no Neeraj, India have a lot of strong medal-contenders such as Sindhu (whose event kicks off on August 3), Mirabai Chanu (weightlifting), Bajrang Punia (wrestling), Lovlina Borgohain (boxing), Manika Batra (table tennis), India's hockey teams (men and women), women's cricket team, etc.

The CWG 2022 edition will be held in Birmingham from July 28 to August 8.

On Wednesday (July 27), PV Sindhu added another feather to her illustrious hat as the 27-year-old superstar shuttler has been named as India's flagbearer for the 2022 Commonwealth Games, to kick off in Birmingham on July 29.

On Wednesday (July 27), PV Sindhu added another feather to her illustrious hat as the 27-year-old superstar shuttler has been named as India's flagbearer for the 2022 Commonwealth Games, to kick off in Birmingham on July 29. It was touted to be a two-way battle between Neeraj Chopra and Sindhu for being the flagbearer before the shuttler was given the responsibility by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). Neeraj, for the unversed, has bowed out of the showpiece event due to a groin injury which he sustained during his silver-medal win in the men's javelin throw final at the recently-concluded World Atheltics Championships. "It's a great honour to be bestowed with the responsibility to lead the contingent and hold the flag at such an august gathering. I'm extremely happy and I wish all my fellow contingent all the best for the Games. I would like to thank IOA also for choosing me as the flag-bearer," Sindhu said after the announcement here on Wednesday. Sindhu was India's flagbearer at the last edition, in Gold Coast, where she returned with a silver medal in the women's singles. This time around, the two-time Olympic medallist will be eager to secure the elusive gold medal. ALSO READ | CWG 2022: Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu named India's flagbearer for opening ceremony "The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) is delighted to announce shuttler PV Sindhu, a two-time Olympic medallist, as the Flagbearer of Team India at the Opening Ceremony," the IOA had said in a statement. "Two other highly deserving athletes were considered to be Team India's Flagbearer: weightlifter Ms Mirabai Chanu and boxer Ms Lovlina Borgohain, who are both Olympic medallists," it added. ALSO READ | Exclusive: Time for India to win elusive gold, says coach Graham Reid as Manpreet & Co. prepare for CWG'22 Despite no Neeraj, India have a lot of strong medal-contenders such as Sindhu (whose event kicks off on August 3), Mirabai Chanu (weightlifting), Bajrang Punia (wrestling), Lovlina Borgohain (boxing), Manika Batra (table tennis), India's hockey teams (men and women), women's cricket team, etc. The CWG 2022 edition will be held in Birmingham from July 28 to August 8.

'It's a great honour' : Olympian PV Sindhu on becoming India's flagbearer at CWG 2022

Ahead of the Commonwealth Games, in Birmingham, India's superstar shuttler PV Sindhu has been named as the country's flagbearer at the opening ceremony. The event will kick off in England on July 29. Sindhu, a two-time Olympic medal winner, is one of the promising Indian athletes who is touted to return with a medal.

"The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) is delighted to announce shuttler PV Sindhu, a two-time Olympic medallist, as the Flagbearer of Team India at the Opening Ceremony," the IOA statement read.

"Two other highly deserving athletes were considered to be Team India's Flagbearer: weightlifter Ms Mirabai Chanu and boxer Ms Lovlina Borgohain, who are both Olympic medallists.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neeraj-chopra-out-of-cwg22-after-stupendous-run-since-tokyo-2020-javelin-stars-misfortune-catches-up-500802">Neeraj Chopra out of CWG'22: After stupendous run since Tokyo 2020, javelin star's misfortune catches up</a>

For the unversed, the 27-year-old Sindhu returned with a bronze medal in Tokyo Olympics 2020 and recently won the Singapore Open. Earlier this year, the star shuttler had also emerged victorious in&nbsp;the Syed Modi International and Swiss Open. Hence, form is certainly on her side and Sindhu will look to add another medal in her illustrious career. She will begin her CWG 2022 campaign on August 3.

Meanwhile, the opening ceremony of CWG'22 will be held on Thursday (July 28) at Alexander Stadium in Birmingham. Apart from Sindhu, the likes of Mirabai Chanu, Lovlina Borgohain, Bajrang Punia, India's hockey contingent, women's cricket team are expected to set the stage on fire in the forthcoming Games.

Neeraj Chopra, India's javelin star, recently bowed out of the showpiece event due to a groin injury. Nonetheless, India still have many star athletes who can shine at the mega event.

Ahead of the Commonwealth Games, in Birmingham, India's superstar shuttler PV Sindhu has been named as the country's flagbearer at the opening ceremony. The event will kick off in England on July 29.

Ahead of the Commonwealth Games, in Birmingham, India's superstar shuttler PV Sindhu has been named as the country's flagbearer at the opening ceremony. The event will kick off in England on July 29. Sindhu, a two-time Olympic medal winner, is one of the promising Indian athletes who is touted to return with a medal. "The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) is delighted to announce shuttler PV Sindhu, a two-time Olympic medallist, as the Flagbearer of Team India at the Opening Ceremony," the IOA statement read. "Two other highly deserving athletes were considered to be Team India's Flagbearer: weightlifter Ms Mirabai Chanu and boxer Ms Lovlina Borgohain, who are both Olympic medallists. ALSO READ | Neeraj Chopra out of CWG'22: After stupendous run since Tokyo 2020, javelin star's misfortune catches up For the unversed, the 27-year-old Sindhu returned with a bronze medal in Tokyo Olympics 2020 and recently won the Singapore Open. Earlier this year, the star shuttler had also emerged victorious in the Syed Modi International and Swiss Open. Hence, form is certainly on her side and Sindhu will look to add another medal in her illustrious career. She will begin her CWG 2022 campaign on August 3. Meanwhile, the opening ceremony of CWG'22 will be held on Thursday (July 28) at Alexander Stadium in Birmingham. Apart from Sindhu, the likes of Mirabai Chanu, Lovlina Borgohain, Bajrang Punia, India's hockey contingent, women's cricket team are expected to set the stage on fire in the forthcoming Games. Neeraj Chopra, India's javelin star, recently bowed out of the showpiece event due to a groin injury. Nonetheless, India still have many star athletes who can shine at the mega event.

CWG 2022: Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu named India's flagbearer for opening ceremony

On Monday (July 25), boxer Lovlina Borgohain made heads turn when the 24-year-old Olympic medallist claimed that her coach&nbsp;Sandhya Gurung was denied entry at the Commonwealth Games 2022 (CWG) village and got granted accreditation; denting his training and practice before the showpiece event in Birmingham which gets underway on July 29.

While&nbsp;The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports stepped in and urged the Indian Olympic Association that accreditation be given to Lovlina's coach at the earliest, another Indian athlete has shared of not getting adequate help&nbsp;going into the marquee&nbsp;event. India's wrestler Bajrang Punia -- who claimed a bronze medal in Tokyo 2020 -- has come forward and slammed the officials for his physio's non-inclusion. He has pointed out that the IOA has not granted an United Kingdom (UK) visa to his physio, who was with him for training in the United States of America (USA) as well. In addition, Bajrang further exposed IOA officials' lacklustre approach by revealing that he has spoken to them, however,&nbsp;nothing has been done to solve the issue as yet.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sports-ministry-asks-ioa-to-grant-cwg-village-accreditation-for-boxer-lovlina-borogohains-coach-sources-500568">Sports Ministry asks IOA to grant CWG Village accreditation for boxer Lovlina Borgohain's coach: Sources</a>

<section>"The federation has arranged a UK visa for my physio and he is with me here in the US but I don’t know what will happen after that. He will travel with me to Birmingham but what is the point of having him if he is not given accreditation. He will not have access to venues,”&nbsp;Bajrang told&nbsp;Hindustan Times. "I have also spoken to IOA officials but so far nothing has happened," he added.</section>

It is to be noted that Bajrang will be stepping into the forthcoming CWG 2022 edition after having just recovered from a serious knee injury, including&nbsp;a lengthy rehabilitation process. However, the 28-year-old's&nbsp;personal coach Sujeet Mann is already part of the contingent that is set to fly to Birmingham.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neeraj-chopra-out-of-cwg22-after-stupendous-run-since-tokyo-2020-javelin-stars-misfortune-catches-up-500802">Neeraj Chopra out of CWG'22: After stupendous run since Tokyo 2020, javelin star's misfortune catches up</a>

Earlier today, the Indian contingent were dealt with a huge blow as javelin star Neeraj Chopra got ruled out of the&nbsp;quadrennial event due to a groin injury. Thus, the onus now firmly lies on the likes of Bajrang, Lovlina, PV Sindhu, India's hockey contingent, women's cricket team, etc.

On Monday (July 25), boxer Lovlina Borgohain made heads turn when the 24-year-old Olympic medallist claimed that her coach Sandhya Gurung was denied entry at the Commonwealth Games 2022 (CWG) village and got granted accreditation; denting his training and practice before the showpiece event in Birmingham which gets underway on July 29.

On Monday (July 25), boxer Lovlina Borgohain made heads turn when the 24-year-old Olympic medallist claimed that her coach Sandhya Gurung was denied entry at the Commonwealth Games 2022 (CWG) village and got granted accreditation; denting his training and practice before the showpiece event in Birmingham which gets underway on July 29. While The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports stepped in and urged the Indian Olympic Association that accreditation be given to Lovlina's coach at the earliest, another Indian athlete has shared of not getting adequate help going into the marquee event. India's wrestler Bajrang Punia -- who claimed a bronze medal in Tokyo 2020 -- has come forward and slammed the officials for his physio's non-inclusion. He has pointed out that the IOA has not granted an United Kingdom (UK) visa to his physio, who was with him for training in the United States of America (USA) as well. In addition, Bajrang further exposed IOA officials' lacklustre approach by revealing that he has spoken to them, however, nothing has been done to solve the issue as yet. ALSO READ | Sports Ministry asks IOA to grant CWG Village accreditation for boxer Lovlina Borgohain's coach: Sources "The federation has arranged a UK visa for my physio and he is with me here in the US but I don’t know what will happen after that. He will travel with me to Birmingham but what is the point of having him if he is not given accreditation. He will not have access to venues,” Bajrang told Hindustan Times. "I have also spoken to IOA officials but so far nothing has happened," he added. It is to be noted that Bajrang will be stepping into the forthcoming CWG 2022 edition after having just recovered from a serious knee injury, including a lengthy rehabilitation process. However, the 28-year-old's personal coach Sujeet Mann is already part of the contingent that is set to fly to Birmingham. ALSO READ | Neeraj Chopra out of CWG'22: After stupendous run since Tokyo 2020, javelin star's misfortune catches up Earlier today, the Indian contingent were dealt with a huge blow as javelin star Neeraj Chopra got ruled out of the quadrennial event due to a groin injury. Thus, the onus now firmly lies on the likes of Bajrang, Lovlina, PV Sindhu, India's hockey contingent, women's cricket team, etc.

After Lovlina, Olympic medalist Bajrang Punia slams officials over his physio's non-inclusion for CWG 2022

Stars such as Bajrang Punia and Ravi Dahiya will not get direct entries into the final of their respective categories when the national federation holds selection trials for Commonwealth Games and Asian Games owing to the unrest among upcoming grapplers during the recent Asian Championship trials.

During the trials for the Mongolia event, the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) had given direct entries to Bajrang and Dahiya for the spot-clinching final in their respective weight categories, while the others slogged through the draw. Bajrang faced stiff competition from Rohit in the only bout he fought in the 65kg while an annoyed Aman gave a walkover to Ravi in the 57kg final after battling his way to the summit clash. 
Both Aman and Ravi train at Chhatrasal Stadium.

Deepak Punia (86kg) was also given a direct entry to the final, a move which the other wrestlers termed as unfair. No one complained officially but the decision was criticised and the WFI President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh was seen assuring the wrestlers that they would see better arrangement "next time." 
The WFI is now set to conduct the trials for men (May 17, in New Delhi) and women (May 16, in Lucknow) to pick teams for the CWG and Asian Games.

"No one will get direct entry to final this time. All will have to come through draw for the CWG and Asiad trials. We have not received any request for special treatment as of today but if star wrestlers want some benefit, given their status, the committee can consider but definitely they will not get direct entry into final," said a WFI source.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-star-kamalpreet-kaur-provisionally-suspended-after-testing-positive-for-banned-drug-476549">Tokyo 2020 star Kamalpreet Kaur provisionally suspended after testing positive for banned drug</a>

"Will it be fair on a wrestler who wins four bouts and still sits at home?" 
It is expected that the WFI will ask star wrestlers to compete from the semifinals stage during the trials. 
Ravi has been dominant since returning to competition after grabbing a silver medal at the Tokyo Games. He is miles ahead of wrestlers in his category, even as Bajrang struggles to get back his touch. 
While Bajrang escaped the trial bout against Rohit, the 28-year-old Tokyo Games bronze medallist was far from his usual self at the Asian Championship in Ulaanbaatar, where he won a silver after losing to 19-year-old Iranian junior world champion Rahman Mousa Amouzadkhalili.

His recent struggles must have raised hopes of wrestlers who are eyeing a spot in the Indian team in the 65kg category, which Bajrang has made his own with his dominating show in the past few years. 
A section in the fraternity believes that there is nothing wrong in giving special treatment to special athletes like Bajrang, Ravi and Deepak, since protecting them from injuries is also a responsibility of the federation. 
"If you have four wrestlers whose capability to win international medals is beyond doubt, they must be protected from injuries. Why ask them to play full draw. They are there because they have proved their worth," opined Sujeet Maan, personal coach of Bajrang.

"I personally feel wrestlers who won either gold or silver at the Asian Championship can be asked to play just one bout, the final against the winner of the draw. "No one plays to lose. The new wrestlers just want to defeat these stars but our second line is still not mature enough to win medals at global events. So why risk injuries to our real medal contenders," said Maan, adding that eventually, they would follow whatever the WFI decides.

Respected coach Virender Singh also said that the WFI must keep in mind the overall benefit of the sport. 
"Look, main thing is to win medal, not just participation. These 3-4 guys go for medals. Others have competed in the past in same categories but did they win medals? These boys are doing well and again asked to appear in trials, why?," asked Virender.

"By consistently managing weight, their muscle go weak, kidneys get affected. They have to stay empty stomach and then sweat it out to maintain weight for trials, it affects body adversely. Doing it again and again is not good for their health.

"Their recovery is very important since they do same weight lose drill ahead of competitions. If at all the federation wants to encourage the second line, what they can do is to have trials of other wrestlers on one day and the winner can compete with the established one on the next day, so they are fresh for the tough bout," he suggested.

The winners of the trials will book their berths in the Indian team for the CWG and Asian Games while the finalists will get to compete in the World Championship, which will be held in Serbia in September.&nbsp;

Stars such as Bajrang Punia and Ravi Dahiya will not get direct entries into the final of their respective categories when the national federation holds selection trials for Commonwealth Games and Asian Games owing to the unrest among upcoming grapplers during the recent Asian Championship trials.

Stars such as Bajrang Punia and Ravi Dahiya will not get direct entries into the final of their respective categories when the national federation holds selection trials for Commonwealth Games and Asian Games owing to the unrest among upcoming grapplers during the recent Asian Championship trials. During the trials for the Mongolia event, the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) had given direct entries to Bajrang and Dahiya for the spot-clinching final in their respective weight categories, while the others slogged through the draw. Bajrang faced stiff competition from Rohit in the only bout he fought in the 65kg while an annoyed Aman gave a walkover to Ravi in the 57kg final after battling his way to the summit clash. Both Aman and Ravi train at Chhatrasal Stadium. Deepak Punia (86kg) was also given a direct entry to the final, a move which the other wrestlers termed as unfair. No one complained officially but the decision was criticised and the WFI President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh was seen assuring the wrestlers that they would see better arrangement "next time." The WFI is now set to conduct the trials for men (May 17, in New Delhi) and women (May 16, in Lucknow) to pick teams for the CWG and Asian Games. "No one will get direct entry to final this time. All will have to come through draw for the CWG and Asiad trials. We have not received any request for special treatment as of today but if star wrestlers want some benefit, given their status, the committee can consider but definitely they will not get direct entry into final," said a WFI source. ALSO READ | Tokyo 2020 star Kamalpreet Kaur provisionally suspended after testing positive for banned drug "Will it be fair on a wrestler who wins four bouts and still sits at home?" It is expected that the WFI will ask star wrestlers to compete from the semifinals stage during the trials. Ravi has been dominant since returning to competition after grabbing a silver medal at the Tokyo Games. He is miles ahead of wrestlers in his category, even as Bajrang struggles to get back his touch. While Bajrang escaped the trial bout against Rohit, the 28-year-old Tokyo Games bronze medallist was far from his usual self at the Asian Championship in Ulaanbaatar, where he won a silver after losing to 19-year-old Iranian junior world champion Rahman Mousa Amouzadkhalili. His recent struggles must have raised hopes of wrestlers who are eyeing a spot in the Indian team in the 65kg category, which Bajrang has made his own with his dominating show in the past few years. A section in the fraternity believes that there is nothing wrong in giving special treatment to special athletes like Bajrang, Ravi and Deepak, since protecting them from injuries is also a responsibility of the federation. "If you have four wrestlers whose capability to win international medals is beyond doubt, they must be protected from injuries. Why ask them to play full draw. They are there because they have proved their worth," opined Sujeet Maan, personal coach of Bajrang. "I personally feel wrestlers who won either gold or silver at the Asian Championship can be asked to play just one bout, the final against the winner of the draw. "No one plays to lose. The new wrestlers just want to defeat these stars but our second line is still not mature enough to win medals at global events. So why risk injuries to our real medal contenders," said Maan, adding that eventually, they would follow whatever the WFI decides. Respected coach Virender Singh also said that the WFI must keep in mind the overall benefit of the sport. "Look, main thing is to win medal, not just participation. These 3-4 guys go for medals. Others have competed in the past in same categories but did they win medals? These boys are doing well and again asked to appear in trials, why?," asked Virender. "By consistently managing weight, their muscle go weak, kidneys get affected. They have to stay empty stomach and then sweat it out to maintain weight for trials, it affects body adversely. Doing it again and again is not good for their health. "Their recovery is very important since they do same weight lose drill ahead of competitions. If at all the federation wants to encourage the second line, what they can do is to have trials of other wrestlers on one day and the winner can compete with the established one on the next day, so they are fresh for the tough bout," he suggested. The winners of the trials will book their berths in the Indian team for the CWG and Asian Games while the finalists will get to compete in the World Championship, which will be held in Serbia in September.

No direct entry for Bajrang Punia, Ravi Dahiya into finals of CWG and Asian Games selection trials

tar Indian wrestler Ravi Kumar Dahiya grabbed the gold medal while Bajrang Punia and Gourav Baliyan settled for silvers at the Asian Wrestling Championships 2022 in Ulaanbaatar on Saturday.

This is Ravi Kumar Dahiya`s third straight Asian Championships title. Tokyo Olympics silver medallist registered a comprehensive 12-2 technical superiority win against Rakhat Kalzhan of Kazakhstan in the 57kg men`s freestyle final.

Dahiya had begun his title defence with a win over Rikuto Arai of Japan and followed it up with a semi-final victory over Mongolia`s Zanabazar Zanadanbud.

Tokyo 2020 bronze medallist Bajrang Punia was undone by junior world champion Rahman Mousa Amouzadkhalili of Iran 1-3 in the men`s 65kg freestyle final. Amouzadkhalili had come through the qualification round to defeat the top-seeded Bajrang Punia.

Later, Gourav Baliyan picked silver in the 79kg, losing to Ali Bakhtiar Savadkouhi of Iran in the final. Gourav was down 0-8 in the final but produced a terrific comeback to make it 9-9 right at the end of the bout. But a bigger scoring move (four-pointer) from the Iranian meant the Indian grappler had to make do with the silver medal.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-wrestling-championships-anshu-malik-radhika-secure-silver-manisha-settles-for-bronze-472999">Asian Wrestling Championships: Anshu Malik, Radhika secure silver; Manisha settles for bronze</a>

This is Gourav Baliyan`s second silver medal at the Asian Championships after finishing runner-up in 2020 as well.

In the men`s 70kg freestyle, Naveen pinned Temuulen Enkhtuya of Mongolia to add another bronze to India`s tally. Satywart Kadian picked the final medal of the day for India, winning the 97kg men`s freestyle bronze.&nbsp;

tar Indian wrestler Ravi Kumar Dahiya grabbed the gold medal while Bajrang Punia and Gourav Baliyan settled for silvers at the Asian Wrestling Championships 2022 in Ulaanbaatar on Saturday.

tar Indian wrestler Ravi Kumar Dahiya grabbed the gold medal while Bajrang Punia and Gourav Baliyan settled for silvers at the Asian Wrestling Championships 2022 in Ulaanbaatar on Saturday. This is Ravi Kumar Dahiya`s third straight Asian Championships title. Tokyo Olympics silver medallist registered a comprehensive 12-2 technical superiority win against Rakhat Kalzhan of Kazakhstan in the 57kg men`s freestyle final. Dahiya had begun his title defence with a win over Rikuto Arai of Japan and followed it up with a semi-final victory over Mongolia`s Zanabazar Zanadanbud. Tokyo 2020 bronze medallist Bajrang Punia was undone by junior world champion Rahman Mousa Amouzadkhalili of Iran 1-3 in the men`s 65kg freestyle final. Amouzadkhalili had come through the qualification round to defeat the top-seeded Bajrang Punia. Later, Gourav Baliyan picked silver in the 79kg, losing to Ali Bakhtiar Savadkouhi of Iran in the final. Gourav was down 0-8 in the final but produced a terrific comeback to make it 9-9 right at the end of the bout. But a bigger scoring move (four-pointer) from the Iranian meant the Indian grappler had to make do with the silver medal. Also Read: Asian Wrestling Championships: Anshu Malik, Radhika secure silver; Manisha settles for bronze This is Gourav Baliyan`s second silver medal at the Asian Championships after finishing runner-up in 2020 as well. In the men`s 70kg freestyle, Naveen pinned Temuulen Enkhtuya of Mongolia to add another bronze to India`s tally. Satywart Kadian picked the final medal of the day for India, winning the 97kg men`s freestyle bronze.

Asian Wrestling Championships 2022: Ravi Dahiya clinches gold; Bajrang Punia wins silver

2021 was an eventful year for Indian sports with the country recording its best-ever medal tally at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. It was a stellar campaign for India at the Olympics with a total of seven medals across six sporting disciplines with Neeraj Chopra becoming only the second Indian to win a historic individual gold medal at the Games.

Chopra won an elusive gold medal in men's javelin throw on the penultimate day of the Tokyo Olympics 2020 to bring joy to millions of Indians across the globe. It was a moment of pride for the countrymen as the national anthem was played in Tokyo with Chopra on top of the podium after a memorable triumph. He brought an end to a long and agonising wait of 100 years for a track and field medal in the Olympics.

While Chopra was India's only gold medallist at the Tokyo Olympics this year, a number of other athletes brought glory to the nation with their heroics at the Games. It was a memorable campaign for India as the men's hockey team also won a medal after 41 years to reestablish their dominance in world hockey. Here is a look back at the heroes who clinched glory for India at the Tokyo Olympics 2020.

1) Mirabai Chanu

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Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu opened India's medal tally at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 with an amazing display on the opening day of the showpiece event. Chanu clinched a historic silver medal in the women's 49kg weightlifting category with a brilliant effort. She lifted a total of &nbsp;202kg (87kg+115kg) to finish second on the podium and create history by ending India's 21-yearlong wait for a medal in weightlifting. She also became the first Indian weightlifter to win a silver medal in Olympics.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-mirabai-chanu-to-avani-lekhara-5-women-olympians-who-have-made-a-lasting-impact-with-glittering-performances-410823">From Mirabai Chanu to Avani Lekhara: 5 women Olympians who have made a lasting impact with glittering performances</a>

2) PV Sindhu&nbsp;

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Ace Indian shuttler PV Sindhu proved her class once again at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 where she achieved a stellar feat of becoming the first Indian woman and only the second athlete after Sushil Kumar to win back-to-back Olympic medals. Sindhu beat China's He Bing Jiao 21-13, 21-15 in the bronze medal match in the women's singles event to clinch her second straight medal after her silver at the Rio Olympics 2016.

3) Lovlina Borgohain&nbsp;

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It was one of the most heartwarming stories of success for an Indian athlete at the Olympics as Lovlina Borgohain, a 23-year-old boxer from a small village in Assam, India scripted history at the biggest stages of them all. Lovlina beat Chinese Taipei's Nien-Chin in the bronze medal match of the women's welterweight (69 kg) category at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. She had lost 5-0 against reigning world champion Busenaz Surmeneli in the semi-final but bounced back to return home with a bronze. &nbsp;

4)&nbsp;Ravi Kumar Dahiya&nbsp;

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Young wrestler Ravi Kumar Dahiya clinched a historic silver medal for India in his debut campaign at the Tokyo Olympics. He became only the seventh Indian to win an individual silver medal at the Olympics after going down against two-time world champion Zavur Uguev in the final of the 57kg freestyle wrestling category. He was India's second silver medallist at the Tokyo Olympics after weightlifter Mirabai Chanu.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/from-ravi-kumar-to-pv-sindhu-indian-athletes-with-mind-boggling-cash-rewards-after-winning-medals-in-tokyo-olympics-india-403367">From Neeraj to Sindhu: Indian Athletes get mind-boggling cash rewards after winning medals in Tokyo Olympics</a>

5) Indian men's hockey team&nbsp;

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The Indian men's hockey team made the entire nation erupt in joy when they went on to beat Germany 5-4 in a thriller to clinch their first Olympic medal since Moscow Games in 1980. The Indian hockey team once dominated world hockey and has a staggering 12 medals at the Olympics. However, the team had not won a medal for over 40 years before ending the drought in Tokyo this year.

6) Bajrang Punia&nbsp;

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The expectations were high from Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia heading into the Olympics this year as he had performed well in various major tournaments across the globe. Competing in the men's 65kg freestyle wrestling category, Punia went down against Azerbaijan's Haji Aliyev in the semi-finals but beat Kazakhstan’s Daulet Niyazbekov in the bronze medal match to return home with a medal. It was the second medal for India in wrestling at the Tokyo Games and helped them qual their best-ever meal haul of six in a single edition of the Olympics.

7) Neeraj Chopra

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Neeraj Chopra scripted history at the Tokyo Olympics this year by bringing an end to India's long and agonising wait of over a hundred years for a medal in athletics/track and field. With a monstrous throw of 87.5m in the final of the men's javelin throw event, Chopra became only the second Indian after Abhinav Bindra to win individual gold at the Olympics. His gold medal triumph saw India record its best-ever Olympics medal tally at the Tokyo Games.

2021 was an eventful year for Indian sports with the country recording its best-ever medal tally at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. It was a stellar campaign for India at the Olympics with a total of seven medals across six sporting disciplines with Neeraj Chopra becoming only the second Indian to win a historic individual gold medal at the Games.

2021 was an eventful year for Indian sports with the country recording its best-ever medal tally at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. It was a stellar campaign for India at the Olympics with a total of seven medals across six sporting disciplines with Neeraj Chopra becoming only the second Indian to win a historic individual gold medal at the Games. Chopra won an elusive gold medal in men's javelin throw on the penultimate day of the Tokyo Olympics 2020 to bring joy to millions of Indians across the globe. It was a moment of pride for the countrymen as the national anthem was played in Tokyo with Chopra on top of the podium after a memorable triumph. He brought an end to a long and agonising wait of 100 years for a track and field medal in the Olympics. While Chopra was India's only gold medallist at the Tokyo Olympics this year, a number of other athletes brought glory to the nation with their heroics at the Games. It was a memorable campaign for India as the men's hockey team also won a medal after 41 years to reestablish their dominance in world hockey. Here is a look back at the heroes who clinched glory for India at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. 1) Mirabai Chanu × Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu opened India's medal tally at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 with an amazing display on the opening day of the showpiece event. Chanu clinched a historic silver medal in the women's 49kg weightlifting category with a brilliant effort. She lifted a total of 202kg (87kg+115kg) to finish second on the podium and create history by ending India's 21-yearlong wait for a medal in weightlifting. She also became the first Indian weightlifter to win a silver medal in Olympics. Also Read: From Mirabai Chanu to Avani Lekhara: 5 women Olympians who have made a lasting impact with glittering performances 2) PV Sindhu × Ace Indian shuttler PV Sindhu proved her class once again at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 where she achieved a stellar feat of becoming the first Indian woman and only the second athlete after Sushil Kumar to win back-to-back Olympic medals. Sindhu beat China's He Bing Jiao 21-13, 21-15 in the bronze medal match in the women's singles event to clinch her second straight medal after her silver at the Rio Olympics 2016. 3) Lovlina Borgohain × It was one of the most heartwarming stories of success for an Indian athlete at the Olympics as Lovlina Borgohain, a 23-year-old boxer from a small village in Assam, India scripted history at the biggest stages of them all. Lovlina beat Chinese Taipei's Nien-Chin in the bronze medal match of the women's welterweight (69 kg) category at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. She had lost 5-0 against reigning world champion Busenaz Surmeneli in the semi-final but bounced back to return home with a bronze. 4) Ravi Kumar Dahiya × Young wrestler Ravi Kumar Dahiya clinched a historic silver medal for India in his debut campaign at the Tokyo Olympics. He became only the seventh Indian to win an individual silver medal at the Olympics after going down against two-time world champion Zavur Uguev in the final of the 57kg freestyle wrestling category. He was India's second silver medallist at the Tokyo Olympics after weightlifter Mirabai Chanu. Also Read: From Neeraj to Sindhu: Indian Athletes get mind-boggling cash rewards after winning medals in Tokyo Olympics 5) Indian men's hockey team × The Indian men's hockey team made the entire nation erupt in joy when they went on to beat Germany 5-4 in a thriller to clinch their first Olympic medal since Moscow Games in 1980. The Indian hockey team once dominated world hockey and has a staggering 12 medals at the Olympics. However, the team had not won a medal for over 40 years before ending the drought in Tokyo this year. 6) Bajrang Punia × The expectations were high from Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia heading into the Olympics this year as he had performed well in various major tournaments across the globe. Competing in the men's 65kg freestyle wrestling category, Punia went down against Azerbaijan's Haji Aliyev in the semi-finals but beat Kazakhstan’s Daulet Niyazbekov in the bronze medal match to return home with a medal. It was the second medal for India in wrestling at the Tokyo Games and helped them qual their best-ever meal haul of six in a single edition of the Olympics. 7) Neeraj Chopra × Neeraj Chopra scripted history at the Tokyo Olympics this year by bringing an end to India's long and agonising wait of over a hundred years for a medal in athletics/track and field. With a monstrous throw of 87.5m in the final of the men's javelin throw event, Chopra became only the second Indian after Abhinav Bindra to win individual gold at the Olympics. His gold medal triumph saw India record its best-ever Olympics medal tally at the Tokyo Games.

Super Seven! The heroes of India's best-ever Olympic campaign in Tokyo

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