October 23, 2024: In a recent social media post, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Babita Phogat indirectly targeted fellow Olympic wrestler Sakshi Malik, following Malik's assertions about her role in motivating wrestlers to protest against former Wrestling Federation of India head Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.

On Wednesday, Babita took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to suggest that Malik's claims were driven by self-interest, hinting that the controversy might be a tactic to boost sales of Malik's new book. "Shine with your own character. How long will the borrowed light last?" Babita wrote. She further remarked on the political successes of others, implying that Malik's grievances stem from her lack of similar opportunities. “Some got assembly seats, some got posts, sister, and you did not get anything, I can understand your pain. In order to sell the book, she sold her integrity," she added.

The backdrop to this dispute lies in the ongoing legal proceedings against Brij Bhushan Singh, who has been accused of sexually harassing women wrestlers. Malik, along with fellow athletes Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia, has been a prominent figure in the protests demanding justice for the alleged victims. In a recent interview, Malik claimed that Babita had previously organized a meeting to galvanize support among wrestlers for the protests against the federation’s misconduct.

As the case continues to unfold in a Delhi court, the rivalry among the wrestlers not only highlights personal grievances but also reflects broader political dynamics within Indian sports.