Ace Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat on 3 May issued a stark warning ahead of the National Open Ranking Tournament scheduled for 12-14 May in Gonda, stating that the government and Sports Ministry will be held "directly responsible" if any adverse incident befalls her or her team during the competition. The Commonwealth and Asian Games medallist raised serious allegations of bias and compromised integrity in the tournament's conduct.

Allegations of rigged competition

Vinesh alleged that the venue choice — Gonda, a stronghold of former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh — fundamentally undermines fair competition. "Every hardworking athlete will get their due there — this is something very unlikely and almost impossible," she stated in a social media video. She claimed that refereeing assignments, point allocations, and match outcomes would be "controlled by Brij Bhushan and his people," raising questions about the credibility of results.

Concerns over weigh-in and procedural transparency

Vinesh expressed doubts that official procedures — particularly the weigh-in process — would be conducted fairly. "I don't think the weights of all the hardworking wrestlers will be checked fairly, or that the results on the mat will truly reflect their hard work," she said. These concerns suggest systemic mistrust in the tournament's administrative framework under current WFI oversight.

First public disclosure as harassment complainant

In a significant disclosure, Vinesh revealed for the first time that she is one of six women wrestlers who filed formal sexual harassment complaints against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. "Three years ago, we raised our voices against sexual harassment. Six women wrestlers have already testified before the court. I did not want to speak while the case is still pending, but I want to tell you all today: I myself am one of those six victims who filed a complaint, and our testimonies are still ongoing," she said. Her public identification as a complainant intensifies the political and institutional stakes surrounding the Gonda tournament.

Allegations against Sports Ministry inaction

Vinesh alleged that despite Brij Bhushan's formal removal as WFI chief, he has publicly asserted maintaining a "stranglehold" over the federation. She characterized the Sports Ministry as a "silent spectator," suggesting institutional failure to enforce governance reform or protect athlete safety. This accusation underscores a broader governance vacuum within Indian wrestling administration.

What's next

The National Open Ranking Tournament is scheduled to proceed as planned from 12-14 May in Gonda. Vinesh's public warning and disclosure are likely to intensify scrutiny on the Sports Ministry and WFI leadership regarding athlete safeguarding and competitive integrity. Her attendance at the event, coupled with her allegations, may escalate tensions within Indian wrestling circles.