Allegations against Sushil Kumar have ‘tarnished the image of Indian wrestling’, says WFI Assistant Secretary

Sushil Kumar is one of the most iconic athletes in the history of Indian Olympic sports. The World Champions and two-time Olympic medalist is without a doubt, the best wrestler India has ever produced. But, in what could be a stunning fall from grace, the 37-year-old is now a chief suspect in a murder case in an incident that took place at the Chhatrasal Stadium where a brawl broke out leading to a person getting killed and many injured.

The Delhi Police have formed special teams to trace down Sushil and the other suspects associated with the event. It is noteworthy that one double-barrel gun which was loaded was seized from the spot of crime. Sushil had stated to ANI before being named as a suspect that those involved in the brawl came from outside and that the wrestlers inside the stadium had no part to play in it, but the police have deemed it otherwise.

WFI Assistant Secretary laments incident involving Sushil Kumar

The Assistant Secretary of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), Vinod Tomar spoke to PTI today about the incident and said, “I must say that the image of Indian wrestling has got hurt badly by this. But we have nothing to do with what wrestlers do away from the mat.”

“The incident that happened in February had also tarnished the image of Indian wrestling. The sport has struggled hard in earning a reputation because for long wrestlers were known only as a bunch of goons,” Tomar further said. Speaking further as to whether Sushil’s WFI contract would be revoked, Tomar stated that they were not ‘mulling any such move at present’.

Reports have further stated that Sushil always ‘called the shots’ and that he was someone who harassed fellow wrestlers. The source reportedly said, “Sushil, who is employed there on Railways’ deputation, calls the shots. If you won’t listen to him or do as he suggests, he would quietly start harassing you. People are scared to say anything. They come to make a career, not to indulge in politics. So they found it convenient to leave than tolerate the stadium politics.”

Further, when Sushil was attempted to be contacted by PTI, his mobile was reportedly switched off.

Also Read: Delhi Police on lookout for Sushil Kumar and other suspects in Chhatrasal Stadium firing case