With the announcement of Haryana Assembly elections, all political parties are gearing up for the polls. After days of speculation, news has surfaced about a meeting between wrestler Vinesh Phogat and Rahul Gandhi. Both Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia met with Congress MP Rahul Gandhi. This picture has ignited rumors that Vinesh Phogat might enter the Haryana Assembly elections on a Congress ticket.
There has been speculation for some time that Vinesh Phogat may join the Congress party. The emergence of this meeting picture has increased the likelihood of this happening.
Which seat might she get?
According to political corridors, Vinesh Phogat could be given a ticket from Dadri. Meanwhile, Bajrang Punia is asking for a ticket from Badli, but Congress is planning to field him from a Jat-dominated seat. On Tuesday, Haryana Congress leader Bapura specifically mentioned that clarity regarding Vinesh would come soon.
Will the speculations turn true?
Even before meeting Rahul Gandhi, there were discussions in political circles that if Vinesh Phogat enters active politics, she might join Congress. Recently, she met with Khap Panchayats and farmers at Jind, Rohtak, and Shambhu border, where she was honored with a gold medal by the Khap Panchayats. She said, "When I was in trouble, farmers stood by me."
Congress has also made attempts to attract Vinesh. When she announced her retirement, Congress MP Deepender Singh Hooda was seen with her. Former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda had also demanded that Vinesh be sent to the Rajya Sabha, although this was not feasible due to her age. Vinesh's uncle Mahavir Phogat and cousin Babita Phogat had criticized Congress's initiative.
What could Vinesh's entry into politics mean?
Vinesh Phogat's potential entry into politics could be a significant shift for Haryana. Her strong relationships with Khap Panchayats and farmers could garner substantial support in the elections. Although she hasn't made a formal announcement about entering politics, various political parties have been trying to woo her for quite some time. Her role in the upcoming assembly elections could be a pivotal moment for Haryana's politics.
When will the elections be held?
Haryana Assembly elections will be held on October 5, with the counting of votes on October 8. Previously, these dates were October 1 and 4, but the Election Commission has changed them. The Commission stated that this decision was made to respect the Bishnoi community's practices and traditions. The Bishnoi society has maintained an ancient custom of participating in the Asaoj Amavasya festival, celebrating in memory of their guru Jambheshwar. This fair has been continuously held in Nohar, Rajasthan, for approximately the past 490 years.