Indian Olympic Wrestlers Join Congress Party Amid Controversy
Olympic medalists Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia have joined India's opposition Congress party, following their protest against alleged sexual harassment in wrestling. This move precedes crucial elections in their home state.
In a significant development in Indian sports and politics, Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia, two prominent Olympic wrestlers, have aligned themselves with the opposition Congress party. This transition occurs approximately one year after their involvement in protests against the head of India's wrestling governing body over allegations of sexual misconduct.
The decision to enter politics comes in the wake of Phogat's recent retirement from wrestling. The 30-year-old athlete, who is the first Indian woman to secure gold medals in both the Commonwealth and Asian Games, faced a setback at the Paris Olympics last month when she missed the weight requirement for the women's 50kg freestyle final by a mere 100 grams. This incident led to an outpouring of support from fans and fellow athletes.
Punia, aged 30, is notable for being the sole Indian wrestler to have earned three medals at the World Wrestling Championships. His bronze medal victory in the men's 65-kg category at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics further solidified his status as a national sports icon.
The wrestlers' entry into the political arena is timed just weeks before provincial elections in their home state of Haryana. This region, known for producing many of India's top athletes, is currently under the governance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which is seeking a third consecutive term.
Phogat and Punia were at the forefront of a months-long protest last year, demanding action against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the former chief of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). The WFI, established in 1960, found itself embroiled in controversy when Singh, a BJP lawmaker, faced charges of sexual harassment and criminal intimidation based on complaints filed by six female wrestlers in June 2023.
"They have not only brought glory to the country in the sports field but have also fought a strong battle against injustice on the street."
The wrestlers' transition to politics reflects a broader trend in India, where political parties often recruit popular sports figures to enhance their appeal among voters. This strategy has gained prominence as India's performance in wrestling at international events has significantly improved in the 21st century.
Phogat expressed her commitment to continuing their fight for justice, stating, "Our fight will continue and we will win, in court and in life. I am proud to be with a party that stands with women and against any injustice."
Punia echoed these sentiments, pledging to maintain their efforts in support of various societal groups, including farmers, soldiers, and youth.
As India prepares for the upcoming elections, the inclusion of these celebrated athletes in the political landscape adds a new dimension to the ongoing discourse on sports, politics, and social justice in the country.
