The protest by prominent Indian wrestlers against BJP MP Brij Bhushan for sexual harassment of female wrestlers including a minor is assuming new dimensions with police declaring that they will not be allowed to protest in Jantar Mantar following their manhandling and detention by police. While wrestlers are contemplating their next move and Sakshi Malik, Rio Olympic medallist categorically declaring their resolve to intensify the struggle for justice, the fascist Modi regime is still protecting the accused.
In cases related to POCSO and followed by statements under164, immediate arrest of the accused by police is mandatory as per Indian law. But here, an FIR was registered only after the Supreme Court’s intervention. Brij Bhushan is not an ordinary BJP MP. Being an active campaigner for Ram Janma Bhumi in Ayodhya and as an accused in Babri Masjid demolition, Brij Bhushan is integrated himself with Hindutva fascism. That is why the so called seers of Ayodhya have openly declared a rally in favour of Brij Bhushan on June 5, 2023. Most despicable is the manner in which the self-styled “seers” have come up against POCSO Act itself.
Meanwhile, along with widespread support from all sections of the society within the country, the protesting wrestlers are getting support from international sporting bodies such as United World Wrestling and International Olympic Committee who have condemned the manhandling, arrest and detention of wrestlers on 28 May.
With effect from 1 June onward, many organisations including that of Farmers who led the historic struggle against Modi’s draconian Farm Laws have declared their resolve to come forward exposing the anti-women essence of Indian fascists for whom women are subhuman and who are stooping to protect Brij Bhushan, the accused sexual offender. It is welcome that many democratic organisations are declared their support to the wrestlers’ fight for justice.
In this context, CPI (ML) Red Star appeals to its cadres and those working in class/ mass organisations and women’s movement all over the country to rise up in support of the struggling wrestlers without any let up. The Central Committee extends its wholehearted solidarity with the wrestlers and appeals to all democratic sections to resolutely come forward intensifying the struggle till the arrest and punishment of the sexual harassers.
Arrest of Brij Bhushan with immediate effect
Withdraw Cases against Wrestlers
Ensure Justice for Women Wrestlers
P J James is General Secretary, CPI (ML) Red Star
