Wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia Join Congress Ahead of Haryana Polls

Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia, prominent Indian wrestlers, joined the Congress party expressing gratitude for its support. They pledged to fight for women's rights and strengthen the party ahead of the Haryana Assembly elections. Their move comes after a year of protests against sexual harassment in wrestling.

In a significant political move, renowned wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia officially joined the Congress party on Friday. Notably, Phogat expressed pride in joining a party that supported them during their protests against sexual harassment at Delhi's Jantar Mantar last year. She emphasized the party's understanding of their struggles and vowed to continue fighting for women's rights across India.

Phogat conveyed her gratitude to the Congress and media, highlighting the importance of the party's support during their toughest times. She asserted, "I am proud to join a party that stands with women and is ready to fight from 'sadak to sansad tak'. We will stand with every citizen, especially women, just as passionately as we fought in wrestling."

Punia echoed similar sentiments, criticizing the BJP for not supporting their cause and stating that the Congress is committed to standing against atrocities on women. Their decision to join Congress comes just ahead of the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections and signals their dedication to strengthening the party and advocating for women's rights nationwide. They also resigned from their positions in Northern Railways to commit fully to their new political journey.

(With inputs from agencies.)