India Bloc MPs Protest Wrestler Vinesh Phogat's Olympics Disqualification

India Bloc MPs protested in Parliament over wrestler Vinesh Phogat's disqualification from the Paris 2024 Olympics. The protest, led by NCP MP Praful Patel and supported by PM Modi, demands a thorough investigation and action from the Indian Olympic Association and the International Olympic Committee.

In a significant turn of events, INDIA Bloc MPs staged a protest at Parliament's Makar Dwar on Wednesday, seeking justice for wrestler Vinesh Phogat who was disqualified from the Paris Olympics 2024 just hours before the final match.

NCP MP Praful Patel expressed profound disappointment, highlighting, "It is very shocking and disturbing news that she has been disqualified. All sports federations, including the International Olympic Committee (IOC), cannot have these kinds of yardsticks. How can you disqualify someone at the final stage?"

Phogat was scheduled to compete against the U.S.'s Sarah Ann Hildebrandt in the Gold Medal match but was disqualified for exceeding the 50 kg weight requirement by a few grams. A statement from the Indian Olympic contingent emphasized the finality of the decision while requesting Vinesh's privacy.

Former Haryana CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda condemned the decision and suggested a possible conspiracy. Similarly, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his support for Vinesh, calling her a "champion among champions" and instructed the IOA President PT Usha to explore all possible options to contest the disqualification.

PT Usha assured complete support for Vinesh, highlighting the relentless efforts of her medical team. Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya added that the Indian Olympic Association has lodged a strong protest with the United World Wrestling (UWW).

(With inputs from agencies.)