Vinesh Phogat's Electoral Debut: Wrestling Her Way into Politics

Olympian wrestler Vinesh Phogat kicks off her campaign for the Haryana assembly election, contesting from the Julana segment as a Congress candidate. Amid overwhelming support, Phogat cites her wrestling experiences and citizen support as driving forces. She stresses addressing public grievances and acknowledges key Congress figures’ support.

Olympic wrestler Vinesh Phogat has launched her campaign for the upcoming Haryana assembly election, contesting from the Julana segment as a Congress candidate. Phogat, 30, has received a warm welcome from supporters, including elderly people and various 'Khaps', who greeted her with garlands and blessings.

Polling in Haryana is scheduled for October 5, with vote counting taking place on October 8. The Congress announced Phogat's candidacy as part of its first list of 32 contestants for the assembly polls. Phogat and fellow Olympian Bajrang Punia, both forefront figures in the wrestlers' protest against former WFI chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, recently joined the Congress.

Heartened by the overwhelming support, Phogat drew parallels between her wrestling career and her new political journey. She vowed to address public grievances and acknowledged the crucial support of Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Rahul Gandhi, and Mallikarjun Kharge. Phogat, the first Indian woman wrestler to reach the Olympics final, emphasized her commitment to serving the people of Haryana.

(With inputs from agencies.)