Wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia are set to officially join the Congress party today at 2 PM at the residence of Indian National Congress (INC) President Mallikarjun Kharge, located on Rajaji Marg, according to sources.
This development comes at a crucial time, as Haryana gears up for its upcoming assembly elections. Speculation regarding the political entry of the renowned athletes has been growing, especially after a recent meeting with Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and KC Venugopal at Gandhi’s residence on 10 Akbar Road, Janpath. The 40-minute meeting fueled rumors that Phogat and Punia could be fielded as Congress candidates in the Haryana Assembly elections.
The potential entry of these high-profile athletes into politics could have a significant impact on the state’s political landscape, should they choose to contest elections on a Congress ticket.
Leaders of Protest Against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh
Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia were at the forefront of the protests against former BJP MP and then Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh in 2023. The protests centered on allegations of sexual harassment against Singh, marking a turning point in the wrestlers’ public involvement in national issues.
Phogat, an Olympic wrestler, announced her retirement following her disqualification from the Tokyo Olympics, where she was found to be overweight by 100 grams in her 50-kg category. Bajrang Punia, a bronze medalist from the Tokyo Games, is also considered a major figure in Indian sports.
Impact on Haryana Elections
With Haryana’s assembly elections scheduled for October 5, 2024, the inclusion of well-known athletes like Phogat and Punia could alter the political dynamics. Talks of seat-sharing between Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) are already underway, as both parties strategize for the elections in the state. The counting of votes will take place on October 8, 2024.