Wrestler Vinesh Phogat has aligned with the Congress party just before the Haryana Assembly elections. According to sources, Vinesh Phogat will contest from the Julana Assembly seat, while Bajrang Punia will not be running in the upcoming election. The Congress election committee convened a meeting regarding the Haryana Assembly elections, finalizing candidates for 71 seats so far. Initially, there was speculation that Bajrang Punia might contest from Badli, as it is his hometown. However, it has now been confirmed that he will not be participating in the election, but will instead focus on campaigning.
On Vinesh Phogat contesting the assembly elections, Haryana Congress Chief Deepak Babaria mentioned that it is almost confirmed she will run from Julana. Addressing the participation of MPs in assembly elections, he stated that no MP is allowed to run in these elections.
Notably, wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia formally joined the Congress party today. They met with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge at his residence on 10, Rajaji Marg. Following this, they were formally inducted into the party at the AICC headquarters, in the presence of Congress General Secretary (Organization) KC Venugopal, AICC General Secretary in charge of Haryana Deepak Babaria, Haryana Congress Chief Uday Bhan, and Congress Media and Publicity Department Head Pawan Khera.
What Did Vinesh Say After Joining Congress?
After joining the party, Vinesh Phogat expressed her gratitude saying that while the BJP supported Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the Congress stood by the wrestlers during their protests in Delhi, when they were dragged on the streets. She further thanked the people of India and the media for their unwavering support during her wrestling career. Vinesh also thanked the Congress party, stating that difficult times reveal true allies. She remarked that all parties, except BJP, supported them when they were dragged on streets. She emphasized her new journey and wished that future athletes would not have to endure the hardships they faced. She concluded, saying they will not be scared, nor will they back down, and that they are confident of winning their ongoing court case.
Venugopal's Mention of Railway's Notice
During this period, KC Venugopal alleged that after Vinesh Phogat's meeting with Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday, she received a notice from the Railway authorities. Party sources informed that this notice mentioned a violation of service rules due to her meeting with political leaders. However, Indian Railways stated that no such notice was issued to Vinesh Phogat after her resignation.
'A Significant Day for Congress'
Venugopal declared it a significant day for Congress, welcoming Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia to the party as a moment of pride for everyone. He cited the immense support they received from the entire nation, acknowledging the backing from Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and other Congress leaders during their protests.
