Mahavir Singh Phogat, a Dronacharya Awardee and veteran wrestling coach, on 4 May voiced serious concerns over the state of wrestling infrastructure and administration in India while backing wrestler Vinesh Phogat, citing the need for proper rule implementation, better training facilities, and an end to internal player conflicts. His remarks come as Vinesh has publicly revealed she is one of six women wrestlers who filed a formal sexual harassment complaint against former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.

Infrastructure and training gaps

Phogat emphasised that consistent development—not occasional success—requires access to quality coaching and equal opportunities. "The rules and provisions of the sport must be implemented properly. Performing well just once a year does not make much difference. Even today, there is neither proper training nor adequate facilities for players. Many athletes are still forced to practice in fields," he told IANS.

He highlighted that while stadiums and grounds exist in Delhi and nearby regions, regular access and structured training schedules remain inconsistent. His own facilities in Bhalgarh and Delhi are providing opportunities, but he stressed the need for equal access across all athletes.

Internal conflicts undermining sport

Phogat identified infighting among wrestlers as the biggest structural problem. "The biggest issue is the infighting and disputes among players—be it Vinesh, Sangeeta, or Vijender. Everyone wants to choose their own coach, but what's important is the appointment of good and qualified coaches who can truly motivate players," he said.

This fragmentation, he argued, diverts focus from systemic improvements needed at school and college levels, where foundational development should occur.

Vinesh's safety concerns over National Open tournament

Breaking her silence on the matter—which remains sub-judice—Vinesh Phogat issued a formal warning to the Central Government and Sports Ministry regarding the National Open Ranking Tournament scheduled for Gonda, a region associated with Brij Bhushan. In a social media video, she stated that while Supreme Court guidelines protect victim anonymity, current circumstances compelled her to speak publicly.

WFI president's response

Sanjay Singh, WFI president, dismissed concerns and ruled out venue changes, citing logistical disruption to 1,500 wrestlers who have already arranged travel and accommodation. "If Vinesh is worried about her safety, let me assure her that I am taking personal guarantee of that. Also, we have UWW-approved referees who officiate and all trial bouts are recorded, so there is no chance of any bias," Singh said in a statement.

He questioned the fairness of altering arrangements for wrestlers who have not raised objections, framing a venue change as an inconvenience to the broader athlete community.

Broader systemic questions

The exchange underscores a widening gap between athlete welfare concerns and federation administrative priorities. Notably, this is the first time Vinesh has publicly identified herself as one of the harassment complainants, raising questions about the environment wrestlers operate in and the speed of institutional reform within Indian wrestling governance.