World wrestling body condemns detention of Indian wrestlers

By Emre Asikci

ISTANBUL (AA) - The United World Wrestling (UWW) has condemned the arrest and temporary detention of Indian wrestlers during a protest march.

"UWW firmly condemns the treatment and detention of the wrestlers. It expresses its disappointment over the lack of results of the investigations so far. UWW urges the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the allegations," it said in a statement Tuesday.

"The 45-day deadline that was initially set to hold this elective assembly shall be respected. Failing to do so may lead UWW to suspend the federation, thereby forcing the athletes to compete under a neutral flag," it added.

Wrestlers, including Olympic medalists Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik, have been taking part in a protest for nearly two weeks in New Delhi against the President of India Wrestling Federation Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who they have accused of unwelcome sexual advances.

Vinesh Phogat, one of India's top wrestlers, previously said 10 female wrestlers accused Singh of sexual abuse and they indicated they would not compete in international tournaments unless he was removed from his post.