New Delhi, Dec 6 (NationPress) Olympian wrestler and Haryana MLA Vinesh Phogat has verbally criticized the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) for its treatment of veteran grappler Nirmala Boora, whom she described as being treated "extremely unfairly" during the recent national trials. Vinesh pointed out that Nirmala was barred from participating in the trials, and no justification was provided for this exclusion.

Vinesh has been in conflict with the national federation since leading protests against former WFI president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who was accused of sexually harassing young wrestlers. Despite a court clearing Brij Bhushan, Vinesh and other demonstrators assert that the BJP government failed to conduct a thorough investigation, given his political affiliation.

On Saturday, Vinesh, representing the Julana constituency in the Haryana Assembly, expressed her support for Nirmala Boora via social media.

"Nirmala Boora is a highly respected and accomplished athlete from Haryana. She is a Bhim Awardee, a silver medallist at the Commonwealth Games, a silver medallist at the Asian Championships, and a 20-time medallist in Senior Nationals, including 14-15 gold medals. Currently, she serves as an Inspector in the Haryana Police. Her ongoing participation at this age serves as an inspiration to us all," Vinesh stated.

She emphasized that denying Nirmala the opportunity to compete in the national trials was unjust.

"Recently, she was treated extremely unfairly during the National trials held in Haryana… Nirmala Boora was not allowed to participate; no reason was provided, and there was no official communication. The federation is being controlled by individuals who are arbitrarily deciding which athletes to include or exclude without any transparency.

"Regrettably, neither the Haryana nor the Central Sports Ministries are taking decisive steps regarding this serious matter, despite the hard work players put in throughout the year, hoping for a fair shot," said Vinesh, who reached the final of the 53kg weight category in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games before being disqualified for exceeding the stipulated weight limit during the weigh-in.

The 31-year-old Vinesh, a two-time World Championships bronze medallist, former Asian champion, Asian Games gold medallist, and a three-time Commonwealth Games gold medallist, noted that the treatment of Nirmala Boora raises serious concerns about the future of young wrestlers.

"If a seasoned athlete like Nirmala Boora, who has earned numerous medals for the country, is not being heard, how can we ensure the future of the next generation of athletes? This issue extends beyond one player; it questions the integrity of the entire Indian sports system, and reform is urgently needed. Restoring transparency, accountability, and fairness in sports is essential to ensure that every athlete is recognized based on their merit and performance," Vinesh remarked.

She reiterated her support for Nirmala and called on the government to take immediate action regarding the situation.

"I stand with Nirmala Didi in defending her honor and the rights of every athlete. I urge the government, the Ministry of Sports, and all relevant authorities to recognize this matter and take substantial steps to ensure justice for her," Vinesh added, having retired from the sport shortly after the Paris Olympics in 2024.