Wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia joined the Congress party on Friday. Ahead of their induction, both athletes visited the residence of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, marking what was described as a courtesy call. Party General Secretary KC Venugopal was also present during this visit.
With their transition to the Congress party, Phogat and Punia are moving from the wrestling arena to the political field. This development comes just before the Haryana Assembly elections-2024, indicating their potential engagement in state politics.
Following the meeting with the wrestlers, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge took to social media to express his enthusiasm, stating, “Chak De India, Chak De Haryana! Meeting our talented champions Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia at 10 Rajaji Marg, who have made India proud in the world. We are proud of both of you.”
Early Signs of Political Aspirations: Before this official announcement, Bajrang Punia had hinted at their political ambitions, confirming that both he and Vinesh would be joining Congress. Speculations about their political move had been circulating for some time, particularly after their earlier meeting with Rahul Gandhi.
Vinesh Phogat Resigns from Railway Job: In preparation for their political journey, Vinesh Phogat resigned from her position with the Indian Railways, a decision she announced personally. She reflected on her time with the Railways as one of the most memorable periods of her life, stating on social media, “At this juncture of life, I have decided to separate myself from the railway service and have submitted my resignation to the competent officials of the Indian Railways. I will always be grateful to the Indian Railways family for this opportunity given to me in the service of the nation.”
Speculations on Electoral Candidacy: There are ongoing discussions regarding which constituencies the wrestlers might contest. It is rumored that Vinesh Phogat could be nominated from the Dadri constituency, while Bajrang Punia is reportedly seeking a ticket from the Badli constituency. However, the Congress party is considering fielding him from a Jat-dominated seat instead.
Potential Influence on Haryana Politics: Vinesh Phogat’s entry into politics could significantly alter Haryana’s political landscape. Her strong ties with Khap Panchayats and farmers in the region may translate into considerable electoral support, making her role in the upcoming assembly elections a pivotal factor in the state’s political dynamics.
Upcoming Haryana Assembly Elections: The Haryana Assembly elections are scheduled for October 5, with the counting of votes set for October 8. Initially, these dates were October 1 and 4, but the Election Commission rescheduled them to honor the traditions of the Bishnoi community, who celebrate the Asoj Amavasya festival in memory of their guru Jambeshwar—an observance that has been followed for the past 490 years in Nokha tehsil of Rajasthan.
As the election dates approach, the entry of prominent athletes like Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia into the political arena adds a new dimension to the upcoming contest in Haryana.
