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Who Topped The Google’s 2024 List of Most Searched Indians?

December 18, 2024, 6:03 pm

Olympic wrestler and newly elected Congress MLA Vinesh Phogat topped the list of most Googled Indians in 2024, according to Google Trends. This year witnessed many highs and lows for this determined athlete. She received a huge shock when disqualified at Paris Olympics but she could turn it around by winning Haryana elections.

Bihar Chief Minister and JDU leader Nitish Kumar, with Chirag Paswan, ranked as the second and third most searched Indians, respectively. The two politicians saw a sharp rise in searches on Lok Sabha election counting day. Nitish Kumar’s party has won 12 seats in the general elections, whereas Chirag Paswan stepped into the limelight, successfully claiming all five seats contested by his party in Bihar.

The cricketer Hardik Pandya found himself on the list while garnering both attention with his on-field performance as well as with his life, including separating from his wife Natasa Stankovic. Pawan Kalyan, actor-turned-politician, was in the list also, due to his party’s quite impressive results in the polls of Andhra Pradesh.

Cricketers Shashank Singh and Abhishek Sharma were among the most searched for this year. Model and actor Poonam Pandey was in the news after a controversy over a stunt in February, which she later clarified as a stunt to raise awareness about cervical cancer. She apologized publicly for the stunt.

Radhika Merchant, who married Mukesh Ambani’s son in a grand ceremony in July, was another highly Googled individual. Badminton star Lakshya Sen, who delivered India’s best-ever performance by a male shuttler by finishing fourth at the Paris Olympics, rounded out the list of top 10 most-searched Indians in 2024.

Vinesh Phogat Tops Google India’s Most-Searched List For 2024 | Ranking Inside

December 11, 2024, 3:36 pm

Vinesh Phogat, wrestler-turned-politician, emerged as the most-searched personality in Google India’s ‘Year In Search 2024’ report.

Phogat, alongside Olympians Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia, led last year’s protest against former Wrestling Federation of India chief and BJP member Brijbhushan Sharan Singh. At the Paris Olympics, she qualified for the final but was disqualified due to being overweight. Her appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport was dismissed.

Upon her return, Vinesh joined the Congress and contested Haryana elections. Although the party lost to the BJP, she secured victory in the Julana constituency.

Second place went to Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, who rejoined the BJP-led NDA in January. With 12 seats, his Janata Dal (United) is a pivotal BJP ally after the latter lost its Lok Sabha majority for the first time since 2014.

Chirag Paswan, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) leader and BJP ally, ranked third. A former actor, Paswan now serves as a minister in the central government.

Fourth on the list was India allrounder Hardik Pandya, who faced IPL backlash for replacing Rohit Sharma as Mumbai Indians’ captain. Pandya delivered the final over in India’s victory against South Africa in the World T20 final.

Also Read: ‘Jahan Jaaegi, Satyanaash..’: Brij Bhushan Reacts To Vinesh Phogats Win In Haryana

“Power Star” Pawan Kalyan, Janasena Party leader and Andhra Pradesh deputy CM in the NDA government, secured fifth place.

The sixth to tenth spots were occupied by cricketer Shashank Singh, model Poonam Pandey, business leader Radhika Merchant, cricketer Abhishek Sharma, and badminton ace Lakshya Sen, respectively.

Haryana Assembly Elections 2024: Bajrang Punia Congratulates Vinesh Phogat on Election Victory

October 8, 2024, 2:07 pm

Ace wrestler and Congress leader Bajrang Punia congratulated Vinesh Phogat, who is leading from the Julana assembly seat in Haryana’s Jind district. As per the Election Commission’s website, Phogat is on track to win the seat with a lead of 5,231 votes against her nearest rival, BJP’s Yogesh Kumar.

Bajrang Punia, who recently joined the Congress along with Vinesh, expressed his pride in her achievement, posting in Hindi on X (formerly Twitter):
“Many congratulations to the country’s daughter Vinesh Phogat for her victory. This fight was not just for one Julana seat, it was a fight against the strongest oppressive forces in the country. And Vinesh emerged victorious.”

Congress Voices Concerns Over Election Commission Data

Despite Vinesh Phogat’s strong lead, Congress has raised concerns over discrepancies in the vote count data shown by the Election Commission (EC). Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh accused the EC of slowing down the display of real-time election trends, alleging that outdated information is being shared to influence the results in favor of the BJP.

Meanwhile, as counting continued, BJP candidates were leading in 49 out of 90 constituencies, while the Congress led in 35 seats. Independent candidates and members of INLD and BSP are also leading in some constituencies. Despite earlier exit polls predicting a Congress victory, the BJP is edging towards a hat-trick win in the Haryana Assembly election.

In other key races, Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda was leading from the Garhi Sampla-Kiloi seat, defeating his nearest rival, BJP’s Manju.

Counting of votes from the October 5 assembly election began at 8 AM on Tuesday. As per the EC data at 12:40 PM, counting was almost complete in most constituencies, with results expected to be finalized soon.

Haryana Assembly Elections 2024: Vinesh Phogat wins by 6,015 vote margin in Julana

October 8, 2024, 1:44 pm

Congress candidate Vinesh Phogat win by 6,015 votes margin in Julana . The BJP’s candidate, Yogesh Kumar, is trailing by the same margin, as the election enters its final stages on Tuesday afternoon.

BJP Edges Toward Majority

As per the Election Commission’s latest trends, the BJP has crossed the majority mark in the Haryana Assembly, leading in 48 seats, while the Congress is ahead in 35 seats. Independent candidates and members of the INLD and BSP are leading in other constituencies.

Chief Minister Saini Leads in Ladwa

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini is leading from the Ladwa constituency, securing 32,708 votes over Congress candidate Mewa Singh. In another key constituency, Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda is leading in Garhi Sampla-Kiloi with 56,875 votes, ahead of BJP’s Manju.

Congress leaders have raised concerns over discrepancies in vote count data displayed by the Election Commission (EC). Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera accused the EC of lagging behind in showing accurate results, pointing out that while 11 rounds had been counted, only 4-5 rounds were reflected in the data. Jairam Ramesh echoed these concerns, suggesting that outdated data could be used to influence results in BJP’s favor.

BJP on Track for Hattrick Win

Despite earlier exit polls predicting a Congress victory, the BJP is leading in 49 of the 90 constituencies and is on track for a third consecutive win in Haryana. Congress is holding steady in 35 seats, with counting almost complete in most constituencies as of 12:40 PM.

Vinesh Phogat Takes Early Lead Over BJP’s Yogesh Bairagi in Haryana

October 8, 2024, 9:15 am

The year 2024 has been a rollercoaster for Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat. She faced disappointment after missing out on a medal in the Olympic final, and soon after, she transitioned into politics. Vinesh is now running in the Haryana Assembly elections from Julana, Jind district, and early trends show her leading against BJP’s candidate, Yogesh Bairagi.

Vinesh Phogat’s Political Journey

Vinesh, originally from Charkhi Dadri, made headlines when she joined the Congress party after returning from the Olympics, where she was disqualified from the women’s 50 kg freestyle wrestling final for being 100 grams overweight. Prior to her disqualification, she had defeated four-time world champion Yui Susaki of Japan. Despite this setback, Vinesh’s move into politics has drawn attention. Interestingly, she follows in the footsteps of her cousin Babita Phogat, who ran unsuccessfully in the 2019 Assembly elections.

Her Opponent: Yogesh Bairagi

Vinesh’s main competitor in the Julana constituency is BJP’s Yogesh Bairagi, a former Indian Army captain and commercial pilot. Bairagi played a significant role during the Covid-19 pandemic, helping rescue stranded Indians from abroad and also contributing to relief efforts during the Chennai floods. Currently serving as the president of BJP’s Haryana youth wing, Bairagi is expected to give Vinesh a strong challenge in the elections.

Wrestlers’ Protest and Vinesh Phogat’s Role

Vinesh Phogat’s political entry comes at a time when women wrestlers in Haryana are looking to her for change. Many hope that if she succeeds, Vinesh will be appointed as the state’s sports minister, helping to revitalize wrestling arenas (akhadas) across the state. These training centers, once filled with young athletes aspiring to win medals and secure government jobs, have seen a decline in activity after protests against sexual harassment in the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). Vinesh, along with other top wrestlers like Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia, led protests against WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, demanding his resignation for allegedly harassing junior women wrestlers.

Julana Constituency and Election Context

Julana, part of the Jind district and considered the heart of Haryana, is an important political battleground. In the 2019 Assembly elections, the Julana seat was won by Amarjeet Dhanda of the Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) with 61,942 votes. The constituency is a general seat and is not reserved for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), or Other Backward Castes (OBCs). According to the 2001 census, Julana had a population of 15,561, with males making up 53% and females 47%.

The results of the Julana constituency, along with 89 others, will be announced on October 8. All eyes are on this contest as Vinesh Phogat looks to make her mark in both politics and sports in the future.

Vinesh Phogat Files Nomination for Haryana Assembly; Declares Assets Including Three Cars and a Plot Worth ₹2 Crore

September 12, 2024, 11:04 am

Vinesh Phogat, the Indian wrestler who faced disqualification at the Paris Olympics, has joined the Congress party and filed her nomination for the Haryana Legislative Assembly Elections. She will be contesting from the Julana Constituency in Jind.

Phogat, who was disqualified from the women’s freestyle 50kg final in Paris after being found 100 grams overweight during a second weigh-in, has publicly criticized the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) for the lack of support she received. Her appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport for a joint silver medal was also denied. Phogat expressed dissatisfaction with the support she received from the IOA and accused IOA President Usha of using her situation for political gain.

In her affidavit filed with her nomination papers, Phogat declared her assets, which include three cars and a plot in Sonipat. Her vehicle assets include a Volvo XC 60 valued at Rs 35 lakh, a Hyundai Creta worth Rs 12 lakh, and a Toyota Innova priced at Rs 17 lakh, for which she is repaying a Rs 13 lakh loan. Her husband, Somvir Rathee, owns a Mahindra Scorpio valued at Rs 19 lakh. Additionally, Phogat has a plot in Sonipat valued at Rs 2 crore. Her income for the last financial year was reported at Rs 13,85,000.

Vinesh Phogat Files Haryana Poll Nomination: Shares Wrestling Wisdom, Says ‘Victory Is Certain’

September 11, 2024, 7:33 pm

On Thursday, wrestler Vinesh Phogat submitted her nomination as the Congress candidate for the Julana Assembly Constituency in the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections. She made this announcement alongside Congress MP Deepender S Hooda. Phogat’s decision to retire from wrestling preceded her joining the Congress party.

Following the filing of her nomination, Phogat expressed her gratitude, stating, “It is a matter of good fortune for me that I am entering politics. We are working hard for the welfare of every section. I am grateful for the love the people of Julana are giving me…”

#WATCH | Jind, Haryana: After filing her nomination, Congress candidate from Julana Assembly Constituency Vinesh Phogat says, “It is a matter of good fortune for me that I am entering politics. We are working hard for the welfare of every section. I am grateful for the love the… pic.twitter.com/ZtFSCu7Cgq

— ANI (@ANI) September 11, 2024

Phogat, 30, had been in the spotlight for her performance in the women’s 50kg freestyle wrestling category, where she was expected to win at least a silver medal. Unfortunately, her aspirations were dashed when she was disqualified on the day of her final bout for being 100 grams over the weight limit.

The day after her disqualification, Phogat announced her retirement from wrestling. On September 6, both Phogat and fellow wrestler Bajrang Punia joined the Congress, with Phogat being nominated for the Julana constituency for the Haryana Assembly elections scheduled for October 5.

In response to Phogat’s political move, Babita Phogat, who joined the BJP in 2019, accused senior Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda of driving a wedge in the Phogat family. Speaking to the press, Babita stated, “Bhupinder Hooda succeeded in creating a rift in the Phogat family. People will teach him a lesson. The Congress’s agenda has been to divide and rule. They have always worked to break families.” She also criticized Vinesh for not heeding the advice of Mahavir Phogat, her father and Vinesh’s uncle, adding, “Mahavir Phogat is Vinesh’s guru. She should have obeyed her guru. Guru shows the right path.”

The Haryana Assembly elections will be held in a single phase covering all 90 seats on October 5, 2024. The deadline for filing nominations is September 12, and the vote counting will take place on October 8, 2024.

Vinesh Phogat Accuses IOA President PT Usha of Politics After Paris Olympics Setback

September 11, 2024, 10:20 am

Vinesh Phogat, devastated after failing to secure a medal at the Paris Olympics due to a failed weigh-in, has announced her retirement from wrestling and entered politics by joining the Congress party. Vinesh was disqualified for being 100 grams over her 50kg weight category, which led to her elimination from the Games just before her gold-medal match. She was later hospitalized due to dehydration caused by efforts to make weight.

Phogat also appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport for a joint silver medal, but her request was dismissed. Reflecting on her experience, Vinesh accused the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president, PT Usha, of exploiting her for political gain.

PT Usha had visited Vinesh in the hospital and a photo of the visit was posted on social media, which Vinesh claims was used as a publicity stunt. “One photo was clicked without my notice, and then posted on social media saying they are standing with me,” she said in a recent interview. “That’s not how you show support. It felt like pure posturing.”

Vinesh expressed her disappointment, saying that politics played a role in her heartbreak in Paris, which contributed to her decision to leave wrestling. “People are asking why I’m retiring. For what should I continue? There’s politics everywhere,” she added.

Phogat, a multiple Commonwealth Games gold medallist, criticized the way her situation was handled, suggesting that her struggles were used for political motives rather than genuine support.

Vinesh Phogat Responds To Brij Bhushan’s “Conspiracy” Allegations

September 8, 2024, 9:40 pm

Olympic wrestler Vinesh Phogat has vowed to prove former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh wrong once again. His recent claims suggesting a political conspiracy behind the sexual harassment allegations, as well as his remarks about Phogat’s Olympic performance, have sparked another exchange between the two.

Brij Bhushan’s Allegations
Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, former WFI president, accused Vinesh Phogat of being part of a politically engineered protest against him. He pointed to her Congress candidature from Haryana as evidence that the sexual harassment accusations were fueled by political motives. Additionally, Singh criticized Phogat’s Olympic journey, claiming she violated the rules by attempting to compete in two weight categories on the same day. He even suggested her disqualification was a divine consequence.

Vinesh Phogat’s Response
In an exclusive interview with NDTV, Vinesh Phogat firmly rejected these allegations, asserting that Brij Bhushan’s claims have been proven wrong in the past and will be again. She highlighted that many women came forward with harassment accusations against him, yet he has not faced any consequences. “He claimed he would hang himself if any woman accused him. Many did, and yet he hasn’t kept his word,” Phogat remarked.

Regarding the Olympic accusations, Phogat dismissed Singh’s comments, emphasizing her legitimate participation in national competitions and trials. “I have always competed fairly, qualified for the Olympics, and proven him wrong at every turn. I will continue to do so,” she added.

Looking Forward
Vinesh Phogat continues to focus on her political career and athletic pursuits, standing firm in her mission to fight for justice and uphold her integrity. She remains determined to expose Brij Bhushan’s falsehoods and confront the challenges ahead.

Congress Hits Back at Brij Bhushan Over Vinesh Phogat Comments, Says ‘God Punished Him’

September 8, 2024, 3:42 pm

The Congress lashed out at former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and ex-BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh after he questioned wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s participation in the Paris Olympic Games. In response, Congress leader Supriya Shrinate remarked, “God punished Brij Bhushan, he is no longer in Parliament, while Vinesh Phogat is set to win and become an MLA.”

He also likened former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda and his family to the Pandavas, suggesting that just as the Pandavas were not forgiven by the country, the Hooda family would also face the same fate.

“During the Mahabharata, Draupadi was gambled away and the Pandavas lost. The country has still not forgiven the Pandavas for this. Similarly, the Hooda family, by compromising the dignity of our sisters and daughters, will also not be forgiven in the future. They will always be seen as guilty for this,” Singh told the media.

Brij Bhushan, who was denied a party ticket in the recent Lok Sabha elections due to sexual harassment charges brought against him by six female wrestlers, had earlier accused Phogat of securing her place in the Paris Olympics through deceit. Singh alleged that Phogat had manipulated trials and falsely qualified for the Olympics, stating, “God has punished you for cheating.”

Shrinate criticized Singh’s remarks, stating, “The allegations by six girls remain to this day, and you are still chargesheeted. Someone in public life should not say such things.” She further added, “Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh is a blot on civil society, and his repeated statements only ensure our victory in Haryana.”

The controversy stems from Singh’s accusations against both Phogat and wrestler Bajrang Punia, whom he claimed avoided trials for the Asian Games. Singh had also mocked their recent decision to join Congress, stating that any “small BJP leader” could defeat them in elections.

Congress Stands With Wrestlers

Congress leaders have strongly condemned Singh’s comments, with party spokesperson Pawan Khera questioning Singh’s audacity. “Six players filed an FIR against Brij Bhushan. How dare he speak like this? We are proud to stand with our daughters, and we will continue to do so,” Khera said. He also highlighted the party’s commitment to fighting for victims of injustice, contrasting it with the BJP’s stance in past controversial cases like Unnao, Kathua, Hathras, and Bilkis Bano.

Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia were key figures in the wrestlers’ protest demanding action against Singh over sexual harassment allegations. Singh is currently facing charges in connection with these allegations and has approached the Delhi High Court seeking to quash the FIR filed against him.

The exchange of accusations comes as tensions rise ahead of the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections, where both Phogat and Punia are running as Congress candidates.

Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh’s Reaction to Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia: “The Move Began Two Years Ago”

September 7, 2024, 11:40 am

In his first response to Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia joining Congress, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh claimed, “The move started two years ago.” The former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and BJP leader accused several top Congress figures of orchestrating the wrestlers’ protest against him, which involved allegations of sexual harassment.

Brij Bhushan alleged that the protest began as a political conspiracy on January 18 two years ago. He claimed the Congress, including leaders like Deepender Hooda and Bhupinder Hooda, was behind the agitation. “This was not a genuine protest by sportspersons but a scripted drama by the Congress,” he stated.

Targeting Bhupinder Hooda, Brij Bhushan suggested that the Congress leader was central to the movement. He accused the Congress of using the wrestlers’ protest for political gain, stating, “The daughters of Haryana are suffering because of this. We are not to blame; it is Bhupinder Hooda, Deepender Hooda, and the protesters who are responsible.”

He also questioned what the Congress would say if it was proven that he wasn’t in Delhi on the day the alleged incidents occurred. “They exploited the daughters for politics and defamed them,” he added.

Earlier, Brij Bhushan criticized the Congress’s approach to Haryana assembly elections, dismissing their chances and expressing readiness to campaign for BJP candidates if directed by his party.

Brij Bhushan further criticized Congress leaders who supported the wrestlers’ protests, accusing them of undermining wrestling in India.

On Friday, Olympians Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia, who had led the protest against Brij Bhushan, joined Congress. Phogat will contest the Haryana Assembly elections from Julana, while Punia was appointed as the working chairman of the All India Kisan Congress.

The Haryana Assembly elections will be held on October 5, with vote counting scheduled for October 8.

Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh Claims Wrestlers’ Protest Was a Congress-Backed Conspiracy After Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia Join Party

September 7, 2024, 10:06 am

A day after wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia joined the Congress party, former Wrestling Federation of India president and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh claimed that the entire wrestlers’ movement was a “conspiracy” orchestrated by Congress. Speaking on Saturday, Singh alleged that the protests, which began at Jantar Mantar in January last year, were not a genuine athlete-led movement but rather a political plot led by Congress figures such as Bhupinder Hooda.

“On January 18, 2023, when the protest began, I stated that it was not an athlete’s movement but was being orchestrated by Congress, particularly by Bhupinder Hooda, Deepender Hooda, Priyanka Gandhi, and Rahul Gandhi. Today’s developments confirm that Congress was indeed involved in this conspiracy against us,” Singh said.

Singh further asserted that the protests were not about women’s dignity but were politically motivated, suggesting that the real harm was done to Haryana’s women because of the protests. “The daughters of Haryana are now facing embarrassment because of this protest. The real responsibility lies with Bhupinder Hooda, Deepender Hooda, and the protesters, not with us,” he added.

He also addressed the allegations against him, claiming he was not in Delhi on the day the allegations were made and accused Hooda of using women athletes for political gain. “They used the issue of women’s dignity for politics and defamed our athletes. I am not guilty of disrespecting women; if anyone is, it is Bajrang and Vinesh, with Hooda scripting the whole affair,” Singh said.

Earlier on Friday, Phogat and Punia, both prominent wrestlers, joined the Congress party ahead of the Haryana assembly elections. Phogat recently became the first woman wrestler to reach the Olympics final in Paris, and Punia won bronze at the Tokyo Olympics. They also resigned from their positions at Northern Railways on the same day. Shortly after their induction, Phogat was announced as the Congress candidate for the Julana constituency, and Punia was appointed as the working president of the All India Kisan Congress. They joined the party in the presence of Congress leaders KC Venugopal, Pawan Khera, Udai Bhan, and AICC in-charge of Haryana Deepak Babaria.

Congress Announces Haryana Poll Candidates; Vinesh Phogat In Julana

September 6, 2024, 10:38 pm

The Congress party has officially released its first list of candidates for the Haryana Assembly elections 2024. Among the prominent names is wrestling champion Vinesh Phogat, who will contest from the Julana constituency. This announcement came just hours after Phogat and fellow wrestler Bajrang Punia joined the Congress party.

Phogat, after joining Congress, expressed her gratitude and recalled how the party supported her during difficult times. She also accused the BJP IT cell of defaming her when she raised her voice for justice.

Election Commission’s Exit Poll Notification

In other developments, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued a notification banning the publication of exit polls during the Haryana and Jammu & Kashmir Assembly elections. The restriction will be in effect from 7 am on September 18 until 6:30 pm on October 5, to ensure a fair and transparent election process.

Additionally, the display of any election-related content, such as opinion poll results, will be restricted 48 hours before polling concludes.

Haryana Elections 2024: Key Details

The Haryana Assembly consists of 90 members, and elections are scheduled for October 5. The last date for filing nominations is September 12. Congress has announced Bhupinder Singh Hooda will contest from Garhi Sampla-Kiloi.

Jammu & Kashmir Assembly Elections

Meanwhile, the BJP has also been active in Jammu and Kashmir. Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently released the party’s manifesto, laying out the key agenda for the upcoming elections. The J&K Assembly has 90 constituencies, and polling will take place across three phases: September 18, 25, and October 1.

These elections will be the first in Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370.

Important Dates:
– Haryana Election Date: October 5, 2024
– J&K Election Dates: September 18, 25, and October 1
– Vote Counting: October 8, 2024

Vinesh Phogat Expresses Pride in Joining Congress Ahead of Haryana Polls

September 6, 2024, 3:59 pm

Olympians and prominent wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia have officially joined the Congress party, a significant political development just weeks before the Haryana Assembly elections. The duo, who led protests against former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over sexual harassment allegations last year, met Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge before their induction at the party headquarters in New Delhi.

Addressing the gathering, Phogat reflected on the difficult times they faced during the protests, stating, “It is only when times are bad that you know who stands with you.” She thanked the Congress party for their support, adding, “When we were dragged on the roads, every party except the BJP stood with us and understood our pain.”

Phogat, 30, expressed pride in joining a party that stands against injustice towards women. She emphasized her commitment to work with the same dedication that defined her wrestling career, while vowing to continue her fight for women’s rights.

Earlier in the day, Phogat resigned from her position as an Officer on Special Duty (OSD) with Northern Railways, citing personal reasons. In her resignation letter, she thanked the Indian Railways for the opportunity and shared her plans to focus on serving the public.

Bajrang Punia, also 30, joined Phogat in meeting Congress leader Rahul Gandhi earlier in the week, fueling speculation about their political entry. Both athletes are expected to play significant roles in the upcoming elections, with Punia likely to be appointed co-chairman of the Haryana Congress campaign committee and Phogat possibly contesting the Assembly polls.

Phogat’s entry into politics follows her retirement from wrestling after her disqualification in the 50 kg freestyle event at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she exceeded the weight limit by 100 grams. Despite her setback, her popularity remains strong, particularly among farmers, a key voting bloc in Haryana. Last week, Phogat extended her support to farmers demanding a legal guarantee for the Minimum Support Price (MSP) at a protest on the Haryana-Punjab border.

The Congress is banking on Phogat’s influence to garner support from farmers and capitalize on growing discontent with the BJP, which has ruled Haryana since 2014. The party is also negotiating seat-sharing with its INDIA alliance partner, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), ahead of the state’s 90-seat election. While AAP seeks 10 seats, Congress has offered five to seven, and discussions are ongoing.

This move by the Congress comes as it aims to consolidate its position in Haryana after securing five out of 10 Lok Sabha seats earlier this year. However, the BJP faces internal challenges, with key leaders such as Energy Minister Ranjit Chautala and MLA Lakshman Napa leaving the party, potentially bolstering the Congress’s chances.

Sakshi Malik on Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat Joining Congress: “Their Personal Choice”

September 6, 2024, 3:34 pm

Olympic medallist wrestler Sakshi Malik commented on the impending political induction of fellow wrestlers Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat into the Congress party, stating that it was their personal decision to enter politics. Malik clarified that, despite receiving political offers herself, she has no plans to pursue a political career, preferring to continue her advocacy for women’s rights in wrestling.

“I also received several political offers, but I refused them because I believe in staying true to my fight for women in wrestling,” Malik said. She emphasized that her struggle remains focused on improving the sport for women and that her agitation against exploitation in wrestling continues. Malik’s remarks came shortly before Punia and Phogat were seen leaving the residence of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, as part of their formal induction into the party.

This development comes ahead of the Haryana Assembly elections scheduled for October 5, with the counting of votes on October 8. Both Phogat and Punia were involved in protests against former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who faced allegations of sexual harassment in 2023.

Malik reiterated that her fight was solely against Brij Bhushan and had no political motivations. “I am apolitical and will not join any party campaign. My fight was only against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh,” she said.

Sources suggest that while Bajrang Punia will not contest the elections, he is likely to be appointed as the co-chairman of the Haryana Congress campaign committee. Vinesh Phogat, however, is expected to contest the election, with her seat to be finalized soon.

This political move comes after both Punia and Phogat met Congress MP Rahul Gandhi in the national capital earlier this week, fueling speculation about their entry into politics. Vinesh Phogat, who was disqualified from the 50 kg gold medal bout at the Paris Olympics in 2024 and subsequently retired from wrestling, is expected to follow in the footsteps of her cousin Babita Phogat, a BJP MLA.

Amid Speculation of Contesting Haryana Elections for Congress, Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia Meet Rahul Gandhi

September 4, 2024, 12:31 pm

Wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia met with Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday amid speculation that they might run in the upcoming Haryana assembly elections on Congress party tickets, scheduled for October 5, according to news agency ANI. Sources suggest that the wrestlers are likely to resign from their current positions.

Previously, Vinesh Phogat had met with former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda upon returning from the Paris Olympics, where Hooda indicated that Congress is open to new members. On Wednesday, Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia also met with Congress General Secretary (Organisation) KC Venugopal in New Delhi. Vinesh Phogat, who retired after being disqualified for being overweight before her gold medal bout at the Paris Olympics, has been active in supporting farmers’ causes.

The Bharatiya Janata Party is seeking a third consecutive term in the Haryana elections, while Congress aims to regain power. The Election Commission of India has rescheduled the Haryana assembly election to October 5, moving it from the previously planned October 1.

Vinesh Phogat recently joined farmers at the Shambhu border to mark the 200th day of their protest for a legal guarantee of the Minimum Support Price (MSP) on August 31. When asked if she would consider running in the elections if nominated by Congress, Phogat stated, “I don’t want to discuss it. I have come to support my family members (farmers), and any focus on me should not overshadow their struggle. I am a sportsperson and an Indian citizen; elections are not my concern. My priority is the welfare of farmers.”

Bhupinder Singh Hooda had previously dismissed rumors about Vinesh Phogat joining Congress as a “hypothetical question.” Vinesh Phogat, a prominent athlete and supporter of the farmers’ movement, was honored by farmers on Saturday. The past month has been challenging for her, as she returned from the Paris Olympics without a medal despite reaching the final in the women’s 50kg event.

Amir Khan Praises Vinesh Phogat’s ‘Stupendous Fight’ in Paris via Video Call

September 2, 2024, 2:06 pm

Speculation about a possible sequel to Dangal has sparked excitement after images of actor-producer Aamir Khan chatting with wrestler Vinesh Phogat surfaced on social media. Fans quickly jumped to conclusions, anticipating another sports drama following the success of Aamir’s 2016 blockbuster Dangal. A recent tweet asked, “Aamir Khan has spoken to Vinesh Phogat on a video call. Your reaction?” Fans eagerly responded, with many expressing excitement for Dangal 2.

In the photos, Aamir Khan and Vinesh Phogat appeared in high spirits as they spoke via video call. A fan page on Instagram shared the images, captioning, “Aamir Khan congratulated Vinesh Phogat on her impressive performance in Paris during a video call. He acknowledged her three fights as a testament to her champion mentality. Former wrestler Kripa Shankar, who mentored the actors in Dangal, was also part of the call.”

आमिर ख़ान ने विनेश फोगाट से वीडियो कॉल पर बात की है.

आपकी प्रतिक्रिया ? pic.twitter.com/qCeJvpMCzu

— Mandeep Punia (@mandeeppunia1) August 31, 2024

Dangal featured Aamir as Mahavir Singh Phogat, a wrestler who trained his daughters, Geeta Phogat and Babita Kumari, to become India’s first world-class female wrestlers. Fatima Sana Shaikh and Sanya Malhotra played the older versions of the Phogat sisters, while Zaira Wasim and the late Suhani Bhatnagar portrayed their younger selves.

The photos of Aamir and Vinesh’s call were also widely shared on Twitter. One user commented, “Dangal 2 is on its way!” Another chimed in, “Two champions together.” Another tweet humorously predicted, “Aamir Khan will make a film and mint money! Just wait and see!”

Vinesh Phogat had recently been in the spotlight during the Paris Olympics 2024, where she reached the final of the women’s 50kg wrestling event but was disqualified for breaching the weight limit before the final match. Despite this setback, Vinesh announced her retirement from wrestling the following day. She also appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) for a joint silver medal, but the appeal was ultimately dismissed after several deferrals.

WATCH : Vinesh Phogat Joins 200-Day Farmers’ Protest at Shambhu Border

August 31, 2024, 1:02 pm

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat has joined the ongoing protest at the Shambhu border, where farmers from Haryana and Delhi have been demonstrating for 200 days. The farmers are demanding that the Central government honor its promises, particularly concerning a legal guarantee for the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for their crops.

Speaking at the protest site, Vinesh Phogat expressed concern over the prolonged demonstration. She said, “It has been 200 days since they are sitting here. It is painful to see this. All of them are citizens of this country. Farmers run the country. Nothing is possible without them, not even athletes—if they don’t feed us, we won’t be able to compete. Many times we are helpless and can’t do anything; we represent the country at such big levels but can’t do anything for our family even when we see them sad.”

#WATCH | Wrestler Vinesh Phogat arrives at the farmers' protest site at Shambhu border, as the agitation completes 200 days.

She says, "It has been 200 days since they are sitting here. It is painful to see this. All of them are citizens of this country. Farmers run the… pic.twitter.com/MJo9XEqpko

— ANI (@ANI) August 31, 2024

Phogat urged the government to listen to the protesters and fulfill its promises. “The country won’t progress if people sit on streets like this,” she stated.

During her visit, farmer leaders honored Phogat for her support.

On August 22, the Supreme Court instructed the states of Punjab and Haryana to continue discussions with the farmers to resolve the blockade at the Shambhu border. The court had previously directed local authorities to consider partial reopening of the highway for essential services and daily commuters.

Earlier this year, the Haryana government had installed barricades on the Ambala-New Delhi national highway in response to farmers planning to march to Delhi to press their demands.

Haryana Wrestling Family Rift: Political Divisions Among Phogat Cousins

August 30, 2024, 12:59 pm

Balali village in Haryana’s Charkhi Dadri district is famous for the Phogat sisters, who have earned international acclaim in wrestling over the past decade. Vinesh Phogat, one of the sisters, recently made headlines by reaching the finals in the 50 kg category at the Paris Olympics. Unfortunately, she was found overweight just before the final match, resulting in her losing the silver medal. The entire nation rallied behind Vinesh during this setback.

Family Rift and Social Media Tensions

Despite widespread support for Vinesh, her elder sisters did not stand by her. Instead, they targeted her through social media, which reignited discussions about a professional rivalry among the Phogat sisters. This tension is thought to be fueled by Vinesh’s significant achievements and the upcoming Haryana assembly elections.

Political Aspirations and Family Divisions

Babita Phogat, the second eldest, ran for the Haryana assembly in 2019 on a BJP ticket. Meanwhile, Vinesh has been vocal against Wrestling Federation of India president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over sexual assault allegations, and she is believed to have the support of Congress. This political divide has contributed to the ongoing family rift.

Geeta Phogat’s Social Media Criticism

Geeta Phogat, the eldest sister, recently posted a cryptic tweet, “Chal ka phal chhal, aaj nahi to kal,” which some interpreted as an indirect criticism of Vinesh. Geeta also shared a post from her husband, Pawan Saroha, directly accusing Vinesh of neglecting their uncle Mahavir in a thank-you message. Geeta’s comments were seen as a further indication of the sibling rivalry.

Public Support and Family Dynamics

During Vinesh’s grand return to India, which was widely covered on TV, her younger sister Babita criticized the notion of achieving success by humiliating others. Babita and Geeta’s absence from Vinesh’s welcome event highlighted their ongoing disputes. In contrast, Bajrang Punia, Sangeeta Phogat’s husband, actively supported Vinesh, standing by her during her disqualification and participating in her roadshow.

Political and Personal Fallout

The rivalry among the Phogat sisters began to intensify when Vinesh, along with other wrestlers, protested against the Wrestling Federation of India. The protest, which was supported by Congress, was seen as politically motivated by Babita, who distanced herself from the movement. Mahavir Phogat, their father, also did not support the protest, leading to further divisions within the family.

Potential Electoral Contest

With the Haryana assembly elections approaching, there are speculations about a potential electoral contest between Babita and Vinesh for the Dadri seat. Babita, who previously contested the elections, is a candidate again, while Vinesh has not yet confirmed her political intentions. If the sisters compete against each other, it could further exacerbate their rivalry, regardless of the election results.

Speculation over Vinesh Phogat’s Political Debut

August 26, 2024, 4:05 am

Without doubt, Vinesh Phogat, the wrestler who was arbitrarily disqualified from the Paris Olympics, after she was poised to get a crucial medal for India, is the darling of the entire country. The Haryana grappler has conducted herself with unmatched dignity and grace and her statement after her return from France, has touched many hearts. As India’s first Olympic Gold Medal winner, Abhinav Bindra had mentioned, Vinesh may have not got the medal for her Cabinet, but she shall figure in many stories which would inspire future generations to aspire for bringing glory to the country.

The common perception is that Vinesh was wrongly denied her due, though the reality is that under the rules, as they exist, she was debarred from the games, for a violation which was difficult to overlook by the authorities. It is another matter that many unusual things have happened in the Olympics in the past and the United States, which is the leading country in track and field events, has forced the officials to take decisions which were ultimately in favour of their athletes. The controversy over the 100 metre sprint gold going to Carl Lewis, a champion sportsman after the disqualification of Canadian Ben Johnson on doping charges, continues to be the talking point of those who were at Seoul on that particular day in 1988. Over the years, there have been many unfair decisions in the boxing arena and many pugilists who performed well, were declared losers, leading to protests, which remained unheard.

The story of Vinesh Phogat, will be in the Olympic folklore so far as Indians are concerned, and the general perception is that more than the rules, she was the victim of dirty politics of the Wrestling Federation, since she along with some other wrestlers had agitated against the powerful Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, accusing of sexual misconduct. The matter is in court and the final word on the issue is still not out. However, there is a very strong speculation that she could make a debut in the political arena, in the wake of Assembly elections in Haryana, and because of her immense popularity. The origin of these conjectures, are linked to the fact that even while she was in Paris awaiting the final verdict on her appeal, former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, had spoken about a possible Rajya Sabha berth for her.

The current Haryana CM, Nayeb Singh Saini, also had assured that Vinesh would be treated at par with any sportsperson getting a Gold at the Olympics and would be accordingly honoured. Soon after she arrived in the national capital, Rohtak Lok Sabha MP, Deepender Singh Hooda was amongst thousands of people who had gone to receive her at the Indira Gandhi International Airport. The TV grabs of her arrival with Deepender flanking her, gave enough fodder to the political class to assume that she may be headed for a new career.

Three days ago, Vinesh and her husband visited the Hooda household in New Delhi and were warmly received. Bhupinder Hooda was repeatedly asked whether Vinesh would be contesting the polls, and his reply was simple that the choice was hers. However, he added, that sportspersons were national assets and belonged to the country. Their joining politics was something they had to themselves decide. Although the speculation is very much there, on her part, Vinesh has not made any declaration about her entry into politics. Her numerous fans would want her to prepare for the next Olympics and get India honours on the sports field. The question remains whether the grappler, who had tweeted that she had decided to give up on wrestling, after her disqualification, revise her decision? In the past, sportspersons who have excelled on the field, have not been as exceptional while pursuing politics.

Sachin Tendulkar is an example and though he was nominated to the Rajya Sabha, he has been reluctant to contribute to the deliberations. Similarly, PT Usha, the current Indian Olympic Association president and a legendary athlete in her heydays, finds herself at sea in Parliament. Indian Cricket Coach Gautam Gambhir was elected to the Lok Sabha from East Delhi, but failed to make a mark in the House in the manner in which he excelled as an Opener. Harbhajan Singh is a Rajya Sabha MP from Punjab, and similarly does not participate in the debates as much as he should. Aslam Sher Khan, the Hockey fullback, joined politics, but not many know about his contribution to the sports which helped India in major tournaments.

Olympic Silver Medalist Vijender Singh’s foray in politics has ended in disappointment and the same goes for another silver medalist, Col. Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore. The short point is that if Vinesh Phogat has to join politics, she should weigh all the pros and cons and be mentally prepared to take the plunge. And in case, she chooses to get into the Haryana Assembly election fray, she should ideally contest as an independent with the major political parties not setting up any candidate against her, to acknowledge her contribution to the sports. That way, she would remain neutral and also supporters of both the Congress, BJP and other parties would be happy to back her in the future as well. The Centre could also consider nominating her in one of the vacant nominated seats in the Rajya Sabha. Whatever, she decides shall have to be respected, though the expectations from large number of Indians, that she should get us a medal from the next Olympics, would always be there.

Vinesh honoured with Sarvkhap’s 1st gold medal

August 26, 2024, 3:39 am

Three weeks after her Olympic dreams were dashed due to a disqualification, Vinesh Phogat, was honored with a gold medal by the Sarv Khap Panchayat in Rohtak on Sunday. The award ceremony, coinciding with her 30th birthday, marked a significant moment as Vinesh became the first-ever recipient of this prestigious honour.

The Sarvkhap Panchayat, known for its influence in Haryana, organized a grand ceremony on Sunday to celebrate Vinesh’s achievements and resilience. The event, held in Rohtak, was attended by representatives from various Khap

During the ceremony, Vinesh expressed her heartfelt gratitude. “I am very happy today that my family and the people of the state are standing by me. Seeing this, it feels like my battle has not ended yet, but has just begun,” she said, her words resonating with the large gathering of supporters.

However, when asked about her plans to return to wrestling, Vinesh remained tight-lipped, stating, “Whether there was a conspiracy against me or injustice, everything will be revealed when the time is right.” This comment has only added to the growing intrigue surrounding her recent disqualification from the Paris Olympics, which was reportedly due to being just 100 grams overweight.

Vinesh, who played a leading role in the wrestlers’ protest against former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, recently fueled speculation about a possible political future. Her meeting with Congress leader and former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupendra Singh Hooda at his New Delhi residence on Friday has only intensified these rumors. “My family and all the people of the state are standing by me. Seeing this, it feels like my battle has not ended yet, but has just begun”, she added.

In addition to the recognition from her community, Vinesh Phogat has also become a focal point in Haryana’s political circles. Since her disqualification, there has been a growing chorus among Congress leaders advocating for her nomination to the Rajya Sabha, citing the precedent set by other sports personalities who have transitioned to politics.

The decision to honor Vinesh with this gold medal of 50gms was made in a meeting held on August 20 at Rohtak’s Nandal Bhawan, with leaders from various Khaps, including those from Jhajjar, Sonipat, Panipat, Jind, and Kaithal.

Vinesh Phogat’s Endorsement Fee Jumps To INR 1 Crore After Paris Olympics

August 21, 2024, 6:57 pm

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s journey at the 2024 Paris Olympics took a dramatic turn when she was disqualified from the women’s 50kg freestyle final due to a weigh-in issue. Despite her disqualification for being over by just 100 grams, Phogat’s performance has sparked a significant increase in her market value as a brand ambassador.

Disqualification and Court Battle

Vinesh’s hopes for a medal were dashed when the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) upheld her disqualification. Her elimination from the event, despite her advancement to the final, left many in India heartbroken. However, Phogat’s athletic prowess has elevated her profile beyond the Olympic arena.

Surge in Endorsement Fees

Before the Paris Games, Vinesh Phogat was earning around INR 25 lakh per endorsement deal. Now, her fee has surged to between INR 75 lakh and 1 crore per deal, reflecting her increased brand value and market demand.

Neeraj Chopra and Manu Bhaker’s Brand Growth

Meanwhile, Indian athletes Neeraj Chopra and Manu Bhaker also saw boosts in their brand value following their performances in Paris. Chopra, who won silver, saw his brand value rise to USD 40 million (INR 330 crore), while Bhaker, who earned two bronze medals, increased her endorsement fee sixfold, landing a INR 1.5 crore deal with ThumbsUp.

“No Tolerance…”: CAS Justifies Its Decision for Rejecting Vinesh Phogat’s Appeal

August 20, 2024, 4:59 am

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has ruled that athletes must adhere strictly to their weight limits, with no exceptions allowed, following the rejection of Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s appeal against her disqualification from the Paris Olympics final. On August 14, an ad-hoc division of the CAS rejected Vinesh’s appeal concerning her disqualification for being 100 grams overweight—a decision that received a strong reaction from the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). The CAS published a detailed decision on August 19, explaining the reasons for the rejection.

“The problem for the Athlete is that the Rules are clear as to the weight limit and are the same for all participants. There is no tolerance provided for – it is an upper limit. It does not even allow for the weight of the singlet. It is clearly up to an athlete to ensure that they remain below that limit,” the CAS stated.

“There is no dispute that the Applicant was above the weight limit. She gave the above evidence clearly and directly at the hearing. Her case is that the amount of excess was 100g and that a tolerance should apply as this is a small excess and explicable for reasons such as drinking water and water retention, in particular during the pre-menstrual phase.”

The 29-year-old Vinesh was disqualified on the morning of the women’s 50kg freestyle final.

The decision on her appeal followed three postponements. In her appeal, Vinesh requested to be awarded a joint silver medal with Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzman Lopez, who lost to her in the semifinals but was promoted to the final due to Vinesh’s disqualification. The gold medal was claimed by American Sarah Ann Hildebrandt.

‘Last Year It Was Rs 500’: Vinesh Phogat’s Raksha Bandhan Banter with Brother Goes Viral – Watch

August 19, 2024, 7:58 pm

Vinesh Phogat, the celebrated Indian wrestler, found a moment of joy on Monday as she celebrated Raksha Bandhan with her brother, offering a heartwarming glimpse into a period of relief after a challenging phase in her career. The athlete, who recently faced disqualification from the women’s 50kg freestyle wrestling final at the Paris Olympics, shared a light-hearted moment with her sibling during the festivities.

Vinesh’s Olympic journey took a harsh turn when she was disqualified due to exceeding the weight limit by a mere 100 grams, a mishap that cost her a potential medal. In the aftermath, Vinesh and her team filed an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) for a joint silver medal, but the plea was ultimately denied.

Charkhi Dadri, Haryana: Wrestler Vinesh Phogat celebrates Raksha Bandhan with her brother in their village Balali pic.twitter.com/YgahqHmDPq

— IANS (@ians_india) August 19, 2024

Returning to India on Saturday after a tense wait in Paris for the CAS verdict, Vinesh was met with an emotional welcome at the Delhi airport. Fans and family members gathered to show their support, visibly touching the athlete. A special felicitation ceremony followed, with wrestling legend Mahavir Phogat among those who honored Vinesh for her remarkable achievements, despite the recent setback.

On Monday, Vinesh joined in the nationwide celebration of Raksha Bandhan, a festival symbolizing the bond between brothers and sisters. A video circulating on social media captured Vinesh in a playful mood, engaging in a light-hearted exchange with her brother about his monetary gift, humorously comparing it to previous years.

The festive celebration provided a brief respite for Vinesh, allowing her to enjoy the warmth of her family and the support of her fans, even as she navigates through a difficult period in her career.

Watch: Vinesh Phogat Falls Ill During Homecoming Ceremony, Bajrang Punia Worried

August 19, 2024, 9:22 am

Journey of Indian wrestler, Vinesh Phogat in the Paris Olympics 2024 came to a heartbreaking end as she was disqualified from the women’s 50kg freestyle wrestling final due to being 100 grams overweight. The 29-year-old wrestler made an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to be considered for a joint-silver medal, but her plea was also rejected, leaving her to return home without any medal.

WATCH THE VIDEO:

PARIS TO BALALI

It’s a hectic day for Vinesh Phogat. She’s traveling more than 20 hrs. #VineshPhogat #ParisOlympics2024 #wrestling #Paris2024 #ParisOlympics #Olympics pic.twitter.com/ZC5vEl8jYh

— nnis Sports (@nnis_sports) August 17, 2024

Despite the disappointment, Vinesh Phogat received a warm and enthusiastic welcome from her family and fans upon her return to her hometown in Haryana. When she arrived at her village, Balali, she was honored with a gold medal by her supporters and members of the local ‘khap’ panchayats. However, during the felicitation ceremony, a surprising incident occurred as the celebrated wrestler reportedly fell ill and fainted.

The incident followed a long and exhausting journey from Paris, during which Vinesh also participated in a roadshow and the subsequent ceremony. The combination of travel fatigue and a hectic schedule likely contributed to her sudden collapse. Earlier, Vinesh expressed her deep gratitude for the overwhelming reception she received and shared her hopes for the future of women’s wrestling in her village.

Vinesh Phogat, a two-time World Championships medalist, conveyed her dream of training women wrestlers from her village, Balali, with the aspiration that they could surpass her achievements. She emphasized the importance of supporting these young athletes, stating, “It would be disappointing if no wrestler emerged from this village. We have paved the way and given hope with our achievements. I request you all to support the women in this village. They need your support, hope, and trust if they are to replace us in the future.”

Vinesh Phogat concluded by expressing her eternal gratitude to her village and her country for the love and respect they have shown her, reaffirming her commitment to nurturing the next generation of wrestlers.

Political storm brewing in poll-bound Haryana after Vinesh’s return

August 19, 2024, 6:21 am

Though she returned from the Paris Olympics without a medal, disqualified for being overweight ahead of the finals, India’s star wrestler Vinesh Phogat has emerged as a symbol of resilience and pride in Haryana. Her homecoming to the village of Balali in Charkhi Dadri district was nothing short of a hero’s welcome, with crowds celebrating her as a champion despite the setback.

However, Vinesh’s disqualification has sparked a fierce political battle in Haryana, where elections are just around the corner. Political parties, Khap Panchayats, and sports personalities have all rallied behind her, each seeking to align themselves with the wrestling icon’s cause.

The Congress party, particularly former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda and his son Deepender Hooda, has been quick to seize the moment. With Vinesh having been one of the leading voices against Wrestling Federation of India chief Sashi Bhushan Singh, leading protests in Delhi demanding his removal, the Hoodas see an opportunity to garner political support. Deepender Hooda, the Congress MP from Rohtak, was one of the few political figures present at IGI Airport to welcome Vinesh upon her return. In a show of solidarity, he joined her atop a G-Wagon, alongside fellow wrestlers Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik.

In post on social media platform X, Deepender shared a photo with Vinesh, captioned, “Bahut Ladi Mardani-Who To Haryane Ki Sherani Thi” (She fought bravely—she was the lioness of Haryana). He added, “This emotional moment after disembarking from the airplane at Delhi Airport will always serve as an inspiration in life. There is a lot of pain hidden in this moment. Sister Vinesh risked her life for the pride of the country and all of us.”

On the other hand, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Saini criticized the Congress for politicizing the issue. “We are proud of our daughter Vinesh Phogat, and she need not worry about anything. We will ensure that she is respected. As for the Congress, their job is to politicize every issue since they have nothing else to offer,” Saini stated. In a gesture of support, the Chief Minister had earlier announced that Vinesh would be honored like a silver medalist, entitling her to a cash award of Rs 4 crore from the Haryana government.

The political sparring intensified when Bhupinder Hooda suggested that the Congress would have nominated Vinesh to the Rajya Sabha if they had the required number of MLAs. This remark prompted a sharp retort from the BJP and even from Vinesh’s uncle, Mahavir Phogat, who questioned why the Hooda-led Congress had not sent other athletes to the Rajya Sabha during their tenure.

Despite the political storm brewing around her, Vinesh and her family have remained largely silent. In a late-night interaction organized by the village panchayat, Vinesh spoke with raw emotion, saying, “This Olympic medal has left a deep wound… it will take time to heal. But I want to express my gratitude to the people of my country. I can’t say right now whether I’ve quit wrestling or if I’ll continue… our fight is far from over. I’ve just crossed one part of this battle… it’s a long journey; we’ve been fighting for the past year, and it will go on.”

Watch: Bajrang Punia Criticized For Standing On ‘Tiranga’ Poster While Welcoming Vinesh Phogat In Delhi

August 17, 2024, 6:16 pm

Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia found himself in controversy after he was seen standing on a ‘Tiranga’ poster while welcoming Vinesh Phogat at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport on August 17.

Vinesh Phogat arrived from the Paris Olympics, where her appeal for a silver medal was dismissed by the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) following her disqualification from the gold medal match. Her return was marked by a grand reception, with fellow wrestlers Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia present to greet her.

In a video that surfaced online, Bajrang Punia was captured standing on the bonnet of a car adorned with a ‘Tiranga’ poster. While managing the crowd and media, Punia inadvertently stepped on the poster.

Watch:

So @BajrangPunia standing on ‘Tiranga’

Fun fact you can’t criticise him because he has represented India in olympic games so he has freedom to do all this. pic.twitter.com/FNDniKuyXI

— BALA (@erbmjha) August 17, 2024

The footage quickly went viral, leading to criticism from netizens who accused him of disrespecting the Indian flag. Although it appeared to be unintentional, the act was deemed disrespectful by many.

Amidst the controversy, Vinesh Phogat was visibly emotional upon her return. After the Paris Games, she had stayed in France to await the verdict on her disqualification. Phogat had appealed for a joint-silver medal, having won all her bouts except the final, where she was disqualified for exceeding the weight limit by 100 grams. The CAS upheld the disqualification based on IOC and United World Wrestling rules.

Vinesh Phogat in tears …!!!

– Vinesh is back in India! ??pic.twitter.com/ulzn7A8JI9

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) August 17, 2024

Upon her arrival, Phogat was overwhelmed by the reception and broke down in tears. Bajrang Punia, while addressing the media, praised Phogat’s resilience and expressed gratitude to the supporters. “She (Vinesh Phogat) is being welcomed like a champion. The country saw Vinesh’s journey from the streets to the podium. We thank all the countrymen,” Punia remarked.

Vinesh Phogat Calls Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala ‘An Angel’ After Olympic Disqualification

August 17, 2024, 2:47 am

In her first public statement since the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) dismissed her appeal against disqualification from the Paris Olympics, ace wrestler Vinesh Phogat expressed deep gratitude toward the Indian Olympic Association (IOA)-appointed medical team, particularly Chief Medical Officer Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala. Vinesh described Dr. Pardiwala as “an angel in disguise sent by God” for his unwavering support and medical expertise that helped her overcome multiple injuries.

Vinesh, who had become the first Indian female wrestler to reach an Olympic final after winning all her bouts on Day 1 of the women’s 50kg event, faced a heartbreaking disqualification after being found overweight by 100 grams. Despite taking extreme measures to cut weight, she was disqualified, and her subsequent appeal to CAS was dismissed, ending her hopes of winning an Olympic medal.

In an open letter shared on her social media accounts, Vinesh praised Dr. Pardiwala for his dedication and kindness, recalling how he had operated on her multiple times and played a crucial role in her recovery from serious injuries. She also expressed her appreciation for the entire support staff, including Chef de Mission Gagan Narang, the Olympic Gold Quest (OGQ) program, and other key individuals who had supported her through challenging times.

Despite her retirement announcement following the disqualification, Vinesh hinted at “unfinished” goals and a lingering desire to continue wrestling, though she stopped short of reversing her retirement decision. She acknowledged the disappointment of not achieving her Olympic dreams but emphasized her resolve to keep fighting for what she believes in.

Vinesh’s disqualification and the CAS appeal dismissal have been a significant blow, but her heartfelt words of gratitude reflect her deep respect for those who stood by her in her journey.

PM Modi Commends Vinesh Phogat: ‘A Matter Of Great Pride’

August 16, 2024, 12:09 pm

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat received praise from Prime Minister Narendra Modi for her outstanding performance at the Paris Olympics, where she became the first Indian female grappler to reach the final.

On Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted a meeting and reception for Indian athletes and gold medalists from the recently concluded Paris Olympics at his residence at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg in New Delhi, according to IANS.

During his interaction with the Indian contingent, PM Modi highlighted Vinesh’s remarkable achievement, stating, “Vinesh became the first Indian (women) to reach the finals in wrestling, which is a matter of great pride for all of us.”

However, Vinesh’s historic accomplishment took a severe hit when she was disqualified from the women’s 50 kg gold medal match at the Paris Olympics after being found 100 grams over the allowed weight limit on the morning of the championship.

Following this devastating setback, Vinesh announced her retirement from wrestling on social media. She subsequently filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS), seeking to overturn her disqualification and requesting a shared silver medal in the 50 kg weight category.

Unfortunately, her hopes of securing her first Olympic medal were dashed when the Ad-Hoc Division of the CAS rejected her appeal against the disqualification.