Olympic Wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia Enter Politics

Olympic wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia have joined the Congress party, entering politics after protesting against alleged sexual harassment by the chief of India's wrestling federation. Their political move comes ahead of provincial elections in Haryana. Both athletes aim to continue their fight against injustice.

Olympic wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia have officially joined the opposition Congress party, stepping into the political arena a year after actively protesting sexual harassment allegations against the chief of India's wrestling federation.

The announcement comes just weeks after Phogat's emotional return from the Paris Olympics, where she narrowly missed qualifying for the women's 50kg freestyle final. This setback, which followed extreme weight management efforts, led Phogat to announce her retirement and was met with widespread support from fans and fellow wrestlers.

Their entry into politics also arrives just weeks before provincial elections in Haryana, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's BJP aiming for a third term. Congress General Secretary K. C. Venugopal praised the wrestlers for their contributions to sports and their fight against injustice. Both athletes have vowed to continue their advocacy and support for various social causes.

(With inputs from agencies.)