Indian sports fraternity react to Sushil Kumar's arrest

These players were shocked to hear about the incident.

The Indian sports industry witnessed a huge shock after police took wrestler Sushil Kumar into custody on May 23. Delhi police arrested the two-time Olympic medalist on Sunday after his alleged involvement in the death of national level wrestler Sagar Dhankar outside Chhatrasal Stadium.

Delhi Police issued a non-bailable warrant against the wrestler on May 15th. However, Kumar was absconding in order to avoid punishment. If proven guilty, the case will certainly have negative repercussions on the entire Indian sports fraternity.

Speaking on the issue, several other renowned sportspeople expressed their opinions. “If this has actually happened, it is unfortunate and reflects badly on Indian sport, not just wrestling,” quoted Sharath Kamal as per PTI.

The Indian tennis star has had close interactions with Sushil Kumar during their participation in the Olympics over the years. “He is one of the best athletes we have had. People look up to him. So, if he has done what he has done, it will negatively impact not just wrestlers but athletes from other sports also,” added Kamal.

Fellow Olympic medallist Vijender Singh also shared about his thoughts over the case. He said, “What Sushil Kumar has done for Indian sports is something that can never be taken away from him. That’s all I want to say at this point. Let things be clearer. I don’t want to comment more.”

The Chhatrasal Stadium, renowned for producing India's finest wrestlers, is unfortunately gaining popularity for all the wrong reasons now. After all, one of India’s most decorated sportpersons, who rose from here, is now an accused in a murder case.

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Adding to players’ testimonies on the issue, former Indian hockey skipper Ajitpal Singh also expressed his views. “…it is very shameful and unfortunate. Being a role model Sushil Kumar should have led by example and never indulged in such a brawl. He has got everything in life, the sport gave him everything, money, fame.”

“I met Sushil Kumar during the Beijing Olympics where I was an IOA observer and found him to be a very down-to-earth and polite guy. But having said that everyone needs to know how to handle fame,” he went on to add.

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