In 2023, a wave of protests has rocked the wrestling community in India as Olympic medal-winning wrestlers rallied against the sexual assault experienced by eight alleged wrestlers at the hands of an elected member of parliament. This disturbing incident shed light on the precarious position of women in sports, particularly in male-dominated arenas, and highlighted the challenges they face from the very start. Despite exercising their right to protest, the wrestlers were met with limited support and outright dismissal from the present government, revealing a concerning trend of limited freedom of expression and a failure to address the issue at hand. The entire protest has been overshadowed and whitewashed, signalling a collective failure of the country, the government, and society to provide justice to the survivors.
Gender Vulnerability in Male-Dominated Sports:
The sexual assault allegations within the wrestling community have unveiled the vulnerability that women in sports often face, particularly in male-dominated disciplines. The power dynamics at play within such environments, coupled with societal biases and entrenched gender roles, create an atmosphere where women athletes are subjected to harassment, discrimination, and even assault. The wrestlers’ protest sought to bring attention to this systemic problem and advocate for a safer and more inclusive environment for women pursuing their athletic aspirations. While they are given spaces when winning medals or accolades, the moment they use their voice to complain, they are often dismissed.
Limited Support and Dismissal from the Government:
Despite their legitimate grievances, the protesting wrestlers encountered little support and acknowledgment from the present government. Their calls for justice and accountability fell on deaf ears, as the authorities failed to take concrete action against the accused member of parliament. This lack of response not only undermines the severity of the issue but also sends a disheartening message to other victims of gender-based violence that their voices will not be heard, or their experiences validated.
Restricted Freedom of Expression:
The government’s refusal to address the concerns raised by the wrestlers reflects a broader trend of limited freedom of expression in the country. The suppression of dissenting voices and the stifling of protests undermine the democratic fabric of society and impede progress towards justice and equality. By silencing those who speak out against injustice, the government is inadvertently perpetuating a culture of impunity and a climate where victims are denied their rightful access to justice.
Whitewashing and the Issue Swept Under the Carpet:
Disturbingly, the entire protest and the underlying issue of sexual assault have been whitewashed and swept under the carpet. It is only after a violent clash erupting between the police and the protesters that the issue reached the larger public. Media coverage while sporadic and minimal initially has garner traction in recent times. This deliberate erasure of the issue serves to perpetuate a culture of silence and impunity, leaving the survivors of sexual assault further marginalized and denied the justice they deserve.
A Collective Failure:
The failure to address the sexual assault allegations and provide justice to the victims reflects a collective failure of the country, the government, and society. By not taking decisive action against the accused parliament member and neglecting the demands of the protesting wrestlers, the government is sending a disturbing message that survivors of sexual assault will be disregarded and their suffering trivialized. This failure extends beyond the government to society, which must confront its own biases, challenge patriarchy, and create an environment where women are safe and empowered.
The wrestlers’ protest of 2023 represents a critical moment in the fight against gender-based violence and the struggle for justice in sports. It exposes the vulnerability and constraints faced by women in male-dominated arenas and highlights the urgent need for systemic change. The limited support and dismissal from the government, the restricted freedom of expression, and the whitewashing of the issue all underscore a serious problem of dissent in what is the world’s largest democracy. It is crucial that this protest serves as a wake-up call, sparking widespread dialogue.
The present Situation:
Despite the initial challenges and limited support, the wrestlers’ protest has not wavered, as talks continue with the sports ministry. Determined to fight for justice, the wrestlers refuse to give up on their demands. With the power of social media amplifying their voices, their plight has gained recognition from the public. This widespread acknowledgment and support have revitalized their cause, fostering hope for a resolution and igniting a broader conversation about the urgent need for change within the sports community. The wrestlers remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice and are determined to bring about justice.
References:
https://thewire.in/government/wrestlers-protest-anurag-thakur-discussion
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https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/2159676X.2015.1008028
Image: https://www.thehindu.com/