NCP calls on former cricketers Tendulkar, Gambhir to support women wrestlers

The NCP led by Sharad Pawar has called on former cricketers Sachin Tendulkar and Gautam Gambhir to support female wrestlers demanding action against Indian Wrestling Federation chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over sexual harassment allegations .

In a statement, NCP national spokesman Clyde Crasto asked Tendulkar, who was recently appointed by the Maharashtra government as a ‘Smile Ambassador’, to speak on behalf of the wrestlers.

In a message to cricketer-turned-politician and BJP Lok Sabha member Gautam Gambhir, Crasto asked him to do his “duty” towards his fellow sportsmen.

“Hello Gautam Gambhir. When the world thinks of the India 2011 cricket world cup final, the first thing that comes to mind is MS Dhoni’s six wins, but what really set the tone for that win was the Unforgettable and brave 97 runs that you scored in the final same match”, said Crasto.

“You did your duty as a cricketer and now you must do your duty as a sportswoman by supporting our women fighters who are seeking justice but are being neglected by your BJP party because the man they are accusing is their MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.” he said.

He said that Gambhir should speak up for women fighters as they are fellow athletes.

“His party heads the central government, and if he speaks up, he will amplify the voices of our fighters and help them get justice. So speak up,” the NCP spokesman said.

Crasto had previously urged Tendulkar to be the ‘Smile Ambassador’ for the fighters, claiming that the BJP “has taken their smile away by refusing to act against Singh.”