Vinesh Phogat Embraces Politics After Olympic Heartbreak

Vinesh Phogat Embraces Politics After Olympic Heartbreak

Former Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who suffered a heartbreaking disqualification at the Paris Olympics 2024, has embarked on a new chapter in her life by joining the Congress party and announcing her political debut.

Phogat’s decision to retire from wrestling after the Olympic setback has led her to seek a new path in politics. She has filed her nomination for the upcoming Haryana elections, contesting from the Julana Constituency in Jind.

An affidavit submitted by Phogat during her nomination filing reveals insights into her financial status. She owns three cars: a Volvo XC 60 (valued at Rs 35 lakh), a Hyundai Creta (valued at Rs 12 lakh), and a Toyota Innova (valued at Rs 17 lakh). She is also repaying a loan related to one of her cars.

Phogat’s immovable property is valued at Rs 2 crore. She has Rs 1.95 lakh in hand and her Income Tax returns for the financial year 2023-24 show an income of Rs 13,85,000.

Phogat’s uncle, Mahavir Singh Phogat, a former wrestling coach, expressed his support for her political aspirations. He stated that his daughter, Sangeeta Phogat, will now carry forward his dream of an Olympic medal in wrestling, as he prepares her for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Last Friday, Phogat and Tokyo Olympic bronze medalist Bajrang Punia (Sangeeta’s husband) joined the Congress party. Phogat will make her electoral debut from Julana in Jind district.

Mahavir Phogat emphasized that Sangeeta will now focus on the 2028 Olympics, as Vinesh’s political career has opened up a new opportunity for her. He also mentioned that Babita Phogat’s knee injuries have hindered her return to the mat.

Vinesh Phogat Resigns from Indian Railways Amid Congress Speculation

Vinesh Phogat Resigns from Indian Railways Amid Congress Speculation

Former Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has resigned from her position as an Officer on Special Duty (OSD) with the Indian Railways, citing personal reasons. The resignation comes amid speculation that she may join the Congress party and contest the upcoming Haryana assembly elections.

Phogat, 30, is a renowned wrestler who has won numerous medals at the international level, including a gold medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and a bronze medal at the 2019 World Championships. She was disqualified from the 50kg gold medal match at the Paris Olympics for being overweight by 100 grams, a decision that she appealed against but was rejected by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

In her resignation letter, Phogat expressed her gratitude to the Indian Railways for the opportunity to serve the nation. She stated that she was unable to perform her duties as OSD due to family circumstances and personal reasons. She requested that her resignation be accepted with immediate effect and that one month’s salary be deposited in lieu of her one month’s notice period.

Phogat’s resignation has sparked speculation that she may join the Congress party and contest the Haryana assembly elections next month. She met with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi earlier this week, leading to widespread rumors of her political ambitions.

If Phogat does join the Congress party, it would be a significant boost for the party’s campaign in Haryana. She is a popular figure in the state and has a strong following among the youth. Her decision to enter politics could also inspire other athletes to consider a career in public service.

Vinesh Phogat Considers Political Debut in Haryana Assembly Elections

Vinesh Phogat Considers Political Debut in Haryana Assembly Elections

Ace wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who narrowly missed out on an Olympic gold medal in Paris, is reportedly considering a foray into politics. Sources close to her have hinted at the possibility of her contesting the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections.

Despite her previous statements that she would not pursue active politics, Vinesh has reportedly been approached by several political parties eager to secure her support. The wrestler’s impressive performance at the Olympics, where she was disqualified from the final due to being overweight, has garnered significant attention and made her a potential political asset.

Vinesh’s return to India was met with a rousing welcome, with Congress MP Deepender Hooda and other family members garlanding her at the Indira Gandhi International Airport. However, the party she intends to join remains uncertain.

Sources close to the Phogat family have suggested that Vinesh could potentially face off against her cousin, Babita Phogat, in the Haryana Assembly elections. Additionally, Bajrang Punia and Yogeshwar Dutt, two other prominent wrestlers, may also contest the elections.

Vinesh’s decision to consider politics has sparked speculation about her future in wrestling. In a recent social media post, she hinted at a possible return to the sport, despite her earlier decision to retire after the Paris Olympics disqualification.

The wrestler’s disqualification from the gold medal match due to weight issues has raised questions about the challenges faced by female athletes in India. Vinesh has been an outspoken advocate for women’s rights and has used her platform to highlight the need for better support and opportunities for female athletes.

As Vinesh weighs her options, her fans and supporters eagerly await her decision on both her political and sporting future. Her potential entry into politics could have a significant impact on the Haryana Assembly elections and the broader landscape of Indian politics.

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