New Delhi: Indian Olympic wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia have ventured into politics by joining the opposition Congress party.
According to a Reuters report, Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia joined Congress on Friday, a year after protesting against sexual harassment allegations against the head of wrestling.
With state elections in Haryana just a week away, the two wrestlers have announced their entry into politics.
In their state, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Hindu nationalist ruling party, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), is attempting to secure a third consecutive term in office.
Following their induction into Congress, the party’s General Secretary K.C. Venugopal told reporters that the wrestlers had not only achieved victories in sports but had also fought against injustice on the streets.
Vinesh Phogat expressed her commitment to continue fighting against injustice and stated, “I am proud to be with a party that stands with women and against injustice.”
Bajrang Punia remarked that the hard work done during protests for farmers, soldiers, and youth would now be continued for the country.
Last month, Vinesh Phogat was unexpectedly disqualified from the Paris Olympics, leading to global criticism of Olympic regulations.
She was eliminated from the women’s freestyle 50 kg weight category for being just 100 grams over the limit, despite being considered a favorite for the gold medal.
The 30-year-old star wrestler, who won a gold medal at the Asian Games, announced her retirement from the sport after the Paris Olympics, with her supporters giving her an emotional send-off from Delhi to her village.
Bajrang Punia won a bronze medal in men’s 65 kg wrestling at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.