The athletes commission of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has recommended the national Olympic body to put systems in place to deal with issues of the players “with respect and dignity”. This was in light of the protest by top wrestlers of the country against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brijbhushan Sharan Singh.

The athletes commission met on Saturday to discuss the ongoing protest by the wrestlers who have made sexual harassment and intimidation charges against Singh.

“Six members out of the 10 attended the meeting and they have sent recommendations to the IOA,” a source said.

“The athletes commission felt that it should play a more active role in representing the voices of the athletes in front of the IOA and put systems in place to deal with the issues with respect and dignity.”

Athletes commission chairperson and celebrated boxer MC Mary Kom was not present at the meeting. She heads the committee formed by the IOA on January 20 to look into the allegations. The committee is yet to submit its report.

Mary Kom, during a news conference in Calcutta, however, remained silent on the ongoing controversy.

Ire on media

The protesting wrestlers accused the media of helping Singh more than the players, saying the newspersons should not give him the platform to speak.

“The media is supporting Brijbhushan. You see his criminal records. Does any player, sitting here, or players from other sports, have a criminal record?” Olympic Games bronze medallist Bajrang Punia asked during a media interaction.