Decorated wrestler Vinesh Phogat on Sunday issued a strong warning, saying the Indian government would be responsible if anything untoward happens to her or her team during the upcoming National Open Ranking Tournament in Gonda. She also raised serious concerns about possible ‘biased officiating’ as she prepares for her comeback event.

In a video message ahead of her return to competition after nearly 18 months, Phogat alleged that the tournament—to be held at a venue linked to Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh—could be influenced by individuals close to the former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president.

“If any untoward incident happens to me, my team or supporters during the competition, the Indian government will be responsible,” she said, while urging the media and sporting fraternity to be present at the venue to ensure transparency.

She further expressed apprehension about the fairness of officiating, suggesting that key aspects of the competition could be controlled. “The tournament is being organised at a place where his influence is strong. Who will officiate which bout, how many points will be awarded, who will sit as mat chairman—everything can be controlled by him and his people,” she alleged.

The 31-year-old, who has resumed training in recent months, said she is eager to return to the mat ‘honestly’ and win medals for the country again, but questioned whether she would get a level playing field. “I don’t want any privilege or special treatment. I only want that results should reflect the hard work of athletes on the mat,” she added.

Phogat, who is now also a politician after winning the Haryana Assembly elections from Julana on a Congress ticket in October 2024, spoke about the mental strain of competing in what she described as a hostile environment. She is among the complainants in an ongoing sexual harassment case against Singh.
Referring to the Supreme Court of India guidelines on protecting the identity and dignity of victims, Phogat said she felt compelled to speak publicly given the situation.

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“I am one of the six women wrestlers who filed complaints. The case is still in court and witnesses are being examined. Competing at a place linked to him, where most people present may be associated with him, puts immense mental pressure on me,” she said.

“I doubt if I will be able to give my 100 per cent in that environment.” She also criticised the authorities, alleging that the government and sports ministry were acting like ‘spectators’ and had effectively given Singh a ‘free hand’.

Phogat is set to compete in the 57kg category in Gonda, having previously participated in the 50kg and 53kg divisions. Phogat has been away from competition since the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she was disqualified ahead of the final for being overweight.

Prior to that, Indian wrestling was rocked by a prolonged standoff between top wrestlers and the Wrestling Federation of India over allegations of sexual harassment against Singh. The protests, which began in 2023, saw several leading grapplers—including Olympic medallists—demand action against the then federation chief.

Multiple women wrestlers filed formal complaints, triggering legal proceedings that are still ongoing. Singh has denied all allegations.
The controversy also led to significant administrative turmoil within the WFI, including suspension of its activities and repeated intervention by the sports ministry at various stages.