VINESH PHOGAT’S STORY IS OUR STORY

Relevance: GS 4 – Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in-human actions; Emotional intelligence

Why in the news?

  • Vinesh Phogat’s story is more impactful because stories of triumph are rare in India.
  • Her journey was shaped by an 18-month struggle against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and the fight for justice against former president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, highlighting systemic issues faced by women in sports.
  • On the mat in Paris, she silenced her critics by defeating the undefeated Yui Susaki, completing her hero’s journey.

VINESH PHOGAT’S STORY IS OUR STORY - UPSC

More about the news

  • Despite her victory, a tragic technicality may deny her a medal, an outcome that feels like poetic injustice, as if scripted by a Bollywood writer to evoke tears.
  • Her story didn’t start on the wrestling mat, so ending it with a medal, while significant, is only a small consolation for her and countless others who share similar struggles.

Vinesh Phogat’s Journey and Symbolism

  • Overcoming Adversity: Vinesh Phogat has faced and overcome more challenges than most, making her a symbol of resilience. Her success is something many aspire to, a burden she cannot shed.
  • Hunger for Success Stories: In a country marked by inequality, there is a deep hunger for stories of success, but it’s crucial not to overlook the difficult road that leads to greatness.
  • Lack of Outrage: There is a disturbing lack of continued outrage over the way she was treated for exposing alleged sexual harassment at the WFI. The road to success often involves enduring injustice or facing near-impossible odds.
  • Pending Appeal: At the time of writing, Phogat’s appeal against her disqualification for not “making weight” before the 50-kg gold medal bout is pending. If successful, her much-deserved medal will be celebrated; if not, she will still be honored and celebrated as a winner.
  • Drawing Parallels with the movie Rocky (1976): The underdog Rocky faces the world champion Apollo Creed. Despite being battered and bruised, Rocky’s determination to keep fighting stands out as he asks his manager to cut open his swollen eye so he can continue.
    1. Rocky manages to last all 15 rounds and, even with a split verdict, his earlier words resonate: “It really don’t matter if I lose this fight… all I wanna do is go the distance.”
    2. Just as Rocky’s fight was about more than winning, Phogat’s journey is about more than just earning a medal. The true victory lies in her perseverance and determination to overcome the odds, no matter the outcome.

Heightened Aspiration in India

  • Burden of Expectation: Phogat’s story is sad and exceptional, but even more “normal” journeys to excellence in India carry an unfair burden of expectation.
  • Athletes as Actors: Every athlete with a chance at a medal must also play the role of an actor, often used by billionaire sponsors seeking to capitalize on patriotism for publicity.
  • Struggles of IAS and JEE Aspirants: IAS aspirants and JEE students face immense pressure, often fighting against significant odds. Many know the dark side of “aspiration,” yet generation after generation continues to persevere, clinging to hope despite the challenges.
  • Supply and Demand Dynamics
    • Supply and Demand: Kota and Rajinder Nagar exist because there is a demand, with people willing to pay for coaching and preparation.
    • Hope in a Country of Inequality: In a nation with deep inequalities, these coaching hubs offer hope and solace to many aspirants.
    • Success Stories Fuel the Industry: The success stories and their brand value keep these coaching centers running and, in the case of sports, attract private investments.

The Reality Behind the Success Stories

These points about demand and success are valid but only when considered without the harsh realities many face.

  • Tragic Reminder: The final note of Niharika Singh, an 18-year-old IIT aspirant who committed suicide in Kota, highlights the immense pressure on students. Many have forgotten this tragedy, just as there is an attempt to forget the lack of change at the WFI.
  • Celebration and Continuity: While toppers of entrance exams are celebrated and coaching centers thrive, those who wronged Vinesh Phogat continue to wield power without facing consequences.

The Cost of Forgetting

  • Forgetting the Hurdles: The act of forgetting is partly deliberate. The feel-good stories distract us from the reality that there are limited avenues and opportunities for the vast majority of Indians.
  • Employment Challenges: Outside of government jobs, secure employment opportunities are scarce, especially for the 324 million Indians under 25.
  • What If Not a Virtuoso?: Without her talent in wrestling, what would the fate of Haryana’s women wrestlers have been, statistically speaking?

Ethical Lessons from Vinesh’s story

  • Resilience in Adversity: The importance of perseverance in the face of challenges and injustices, demonstrating that true strength lies in continuing to fight for what is right.
  • Advocacy for Justice: The necessity of speaking out against wrongdoing, especially in systems where power dynamics may silence victims. Phogat’s courage to expose harassment serves as a reminder of the importance of advocacy.
  • Empowerment of Women: The need to empower women in sports and other fields, ensuring they have the support and resources to pursue their dreams without fear of discrimination or harassment.
  • Collective Responsibility: Recognizing that the struggles of one individual reflect broader societal issues, and that collective action is essential for systemic change.
  • Accountability: The importance of holding institutions and individuals accountable for their actions, particularly those in positions of power who may exploit their authority.
  • Cultural Shift: The necessity for a cultural change that prioritizes dignity, respect, and justice, creating an environment where all individuals can thrive without facing systemic barriers.
  • Awareness of Mental Health: Acknowledging the immense pressure faced by athletes and students, and the need for supportive systems that prioritize mental well-being alongside achievement.
  • Value of True Success: Understanding that success is not solely measured by medals or accolades but by the journey, resilience, and impact one has on others.
  • Importance of Support Systems: Recognizing the role of community and support networks in helping individuals navigate challenges, particularly in competitive environments.
  • Encouragement of Future Generations: Inspiring future generations to pursue their passions while advocating for justice and equality, ensuring that they do not face the same hurdles as their predecessors.

Alternative article

https://universalinstitutions.com/wrestler-vinesh-phogat-out-of-paris-olympics-over-weight/

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Mains question

Discuss the ethical implications of Vinesh Phogat’s struggle for justice in sports. How do her experiences reflect broader societal issues regarding gender inequality and systemic injustice in India? (250 words)