Introduction
As the Haryana state elections approach, political parties are rallying in support of wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who faced a significant setback after being disqualified from the final bout at the Paris Olympics. The state is set to go to polls within a few months, and leaders are keen to align themselves with the popular athlete.
Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini’s Support
On Thursday, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini of the BJP announced that Vinesh Phogat would be honored at par with a bronze medalist, despite her disqualification. “Haryana’s courageous daughter Vinesh Phogat gave a brilliant performance in the Olympics and reached the finals. She might not have been able to contest the final match, but she is a champion for all of us. Our government will honor and welcome her the same as we do for a medallist,” Saini declared on X (formerly Twitter).
Under the government’s sports policy, Olympic gold medalists receive Rs 6 crore, silver medalists get Rs 4 crore, and bronze medal winners are awarded Rs 2.5 crore. Saini’s decision ensures Phogat will receive the same recognition and benefits as a bronze medal winner.
Opposition’s Take
Leader of the Opposition and former CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda of the Congress party suggested that Phogat should be honored at par with a gold medalist. Hooda also mentioned that if he had sufficient numbers in the Assembly, he would have nominated Phogat for the Rajya Sabha. Currently, the BJP holds a majority in the Assembly, making it likely that their candidate will win the upcoming Rajya Sabha seat election.
AAP’s Early Outreach
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, representing the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), was the first political leader to visit Phogat’s village in Charkhi Dadri after her disqualification. Mann criticized the BJP, suggesting a conspiracy behind Phogat’s disqualification and called for intervention from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Congress and Wrestler Protests
The Congress party has been vocal about supporting the wrestlers' protests against former wrestling federation chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of the BJP. Vinesh Phogat was a prominent figure in these protests, and Congress leaders have stood with the wrestlers. Recently, the Congress inducted a former woman coach who accused ex-sports minister Sandeep Singh of sexual harassment, further showcasing their stance on supporting athletes and women’s rights.
Conclusion
As the Haryana elections draw near, political parties are leveraging their support for Vinesh Phogat to resonate with the electorate. The widespread backing for Phogat reflects her influence and the broader political strategies at play in the state.
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