Political Support and Controversy Surrounding Vinesh Phogat

Political parties have rallied behind Olympic wrestler Vinesh Phogat from Haryana, with Congress veteran Bhupinder Singh Hooda suggesting her nomination to Rajya Sabha if the party had the numbers. Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini pledged to honor Phogat like a medalist despite her disqualification for being overweight. This move sparked controversy and debate among politicians and Phogat's family.

Political parties Thursday showed their support for Olympic wrestler Vinesh Phogat from Haryana, a state on the brink of assembly elections. Congress veteran Bhupinder Singh Hooda announced he would have nominated the grappler to Rajya Sabha if his party had the numbers in the assembly.

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini declared that his government would honor Phogat, who faced disqualification for being overweight ahead of her gold medal bout in the 50 kg category, similarly to how Olympic Games silver medalists are rewarded in the state.

Meanwhile, Bhupinder Singh Hooda's son, Deepender Hooda, a Lok Sabha MP, suggested Phogat's nomination to a vacant Rajya Sabha seat from Haryana, which sparked a backlash from Phogat's uncle Mahavir Phogat, labeling it a political stunt.

(With inputs from agencies.)