On Monday, September 9, Mahavir Phogat, the uncle of prominent wrestler Vinesh Phogat, expressed his disapproval of her decision to join politics. Speaking in an exclusive interview with India Today TV, Phogat revealed that he had hoped Vinesh would focus on competing in the 2028 Olympics and winning a gold medal. Phogat emphasized that he is against her decision to enter politics, which he believes detracts from her athletic goals.
Political Move and Wrestling Career
Vinesh Phogat, alongside fellow wrestler Bajrang Punia, recently joined the Congress party. She is set to contest in the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections on October 5 from the Julana Assembly seat. Mahavir Phogat voiced concerns that such a political move could mean the end of her wrestling career. He noted that he had hoped she would participate in another Olympics before considering a career change.
Retirement and Controversy
Last month, Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the Paris Olympics after being found overweight by 100 grams just before her final in the women’s 50 kg category. Her appeal was rejected by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), leading to her decision to retire from wrestling. Mahavir Phogat had previously urged her to reconsider her retirement, hoping she would overcome the setback and continue competing.
Mahavir Phogat Addresses Allegations
Mahavir Phogat addressed allegations that Vinesh’s participation in protests against former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh was a precursor to her political career. He denied any connection, stating that the decision to join Congress came only after the elections were announced.
BJP’s Reaction and Singh’s Controversy
The BJP has advised former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh to avoid further controversy with his remarks about wrestlers. Singh, who faced allegations of sexual harassment from top athletes including Vinesh Phogat, has claimed that the accusations are part of a Congress conspiracy. The BJP, wary of political fallout, has asked Singh to refrain from making further comments.
Vinesh Continues to Advocate for Women’s Rights
As Vinesh Phogat transitions into politics, she remains committed to advocating for women’s rights, promising to fight against injustices similar to those she has faced. Vinesh, a decorated wrestler with two world championships medals and an Asiad gold, will run for office in Julana, while Bajrang Punia takes on a leadership role in the All India Kisan Congress.