On April 17, Wednesday, Sakshi Malik earned recognition as one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2024, a testament to her steadfast dedication to advocating for the rights of female athletes and her pivotal role in spearheading a formidable campaign against alleged sexual misconduct within the wrestling community.
Alongside notable figures like Vinesh Phogat, a two-time World Championships bronze medalist, and Bajrang Punia, a Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist, Malik played a central role in initiating a protest that reverberated globally. Beginning at Jantar Mantar, a renowned venue for demonstrations in India, they demanded the immediate arrest and legal action against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the former president of the Wrestling Federation of India, who faced allegations of sexual harassment, intimidation, and stalking, which he refuted.
The movement led by Malik and her counterparts marked a historic juncture in Indian sports, evolving from a targeted call for justice into a year-long crusade that garnered extensive national and international backing.
Reflecting on the significance of the movement she ignited, Malik emphasized its broader impact, stating, “This fight is no longer only for India’s female wrestlers; it is for the daughters of India whose voices have been silenced time and again.”
While Malik’s efforts contributed to Brij Bhushan’s resignation as WFI president, his close associate Sanjay Singh assumed the presidency, prompting Malik’s retirement from the sport.
Despite stepping back from wrestling, Malik persists in her advocacy against harassment, a commitment lauded by Time magazine, which noted, “She did not, however, quit the battle. Her light, and the light of all those standing against harassment, continues to shine.”
Among other notable Indians featured in the list are actor Alia Bhatt, Indo-British actor Dev Patel, and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella.