India Protests Wrestler Vinesh Phogat's Disqualification from Paris Olympics

Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced that the Indian Olympic Association lodged a protest with the United World Wrestling after Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the Paris Olympics for exceeding the weight limit in the 50 kg category.

Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya revealed on Wednesday that the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has formally protested to the United World Wrestling (UWW) following the disqualification of Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat from the Paris Olympics because of being overweight in the 50 kg category. Addressing the Lok Sabha, Mandaviya underscored the government's commitment to supporting her preparation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally intervened, speaking with IOA President PT Usha and urging decisive action. Phogat, who weighed in at 50 kg and 100 grams, was disqualified. The protest was promptly lodged by IOA President PT Usha, who is currently in Paris. The government, according to the minister, provided Vinesh with all necessary resources, including personal staff.

Earlier, there was an uproar in the House over Phogat's disqualification. Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal noted that Minister Mandaviya would address the matter. The Indian Olympic contingent reported that Phogat exceeded the 50 kg limit, resulting in her disqualification. The team expressed regret over the incident but made no further comments, requesting privacy for Phogat.

Vinesh Phogat advanced to the Olympic final after a decisive 5-0 victory against Cuba's Yusneylis Guzman Lopez in the semi-finals. With Phogat's disqualification, Guzman Lopez will now compete against the USA's Sarah Ann Hildebrandt for the gold medal.