Prominent Indian wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia joined the Congress party on Friday ahead of the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections, marking a significant move in the political landscape of the state. Both athletes resigned from their positions in Northern Railways earlier the same day to take this step.
At a press conference, Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal praised the athletes, calling their joining the party a “proud moment.” He highlighted Vinesh Phogat’s resilience, mentioning her difficult childhood. “When she was 9-years-old, her father was shot dead in front of her. Can you imagine a girl child going through something like that?” Venugopal stated.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also expressed his excitement, sharing a post on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “Chak de India, Chak de Haryana! Meeting our talented champions Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia who have made India proud in the world. We are proud of both of you.”
Alok Sharma, a Congress spokesperson, emphasized the importance of sportspersons entering politics, particularly in a youth-driven state like Haryana. “The party will get a huge boost from them joining,” he remarked.
On the other hand, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra reacted to the wrestlers’ decision cautiously. While not directly criticizing the move, he noted, “Anyone can join any party, but people and intellectuals will ask questions.”
The inclusion of Phogat and Punia, both revered sports icons, is expected to energize the Congress campaign in Haryana as the election approaches.
