Babita Phogat, a former wrestler and well-known sportsperson in India, has been added to the Oversight Committee formed by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports to investigate allegations against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. The committee was established to investigate allegations of sexual misconduct, harassment, and/or intimidation, financial irregularities, and administrative lapses in the WFI as leveled by prominent sportspersons. The addition of Babita Phogat to the committee adds further credibility to the investigation and brings in an experienced voice in the world of wrestling.
The Oversight Committee is headed by Khel Ratna Awardee MC Mary Kom, who is also the Chairperson of the Athletes Commission, and includes other notable members such as Khel Ratna Awardee Yogeshwar Dutt, an executive council member of the Indian Olympic Association, and Dhyanchand awardee Trupti Murgunde, a member of the Mission Olympic Cell. The panel also includes Radhica Sreeman, the former Executive Director of TEAMS at the Sports Authority of India, and Crd (Retd) Rajesh Rajagopalan, the former CEO of the Target Olympic Podium Scheme.
With Babita Phogat joining this esteemed group, the Oversight Committee is well-equipped to thoroughly investigate the allegations against the WFI president and ensure that justice is served. Her experience as a wrestler and her understanding of the sport will provide valuable insights into the investigation. The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has made it clear that they are taking these allegations seriously and are committed to finding the truth. The addition of Babita Phogat to the Oversight Committee is a positive step towards ensuring a fair and transparent investigation.