Bajrang Punia Supports Vinesh Phogat in Haryana Elections, Denies Political Motivations Behind Wrestlers' Protests

Wrestler Bajrang Punia has pledged his support to Vinesh Phogat, contesting in Haryana elections. He denied any political motivation behind past protests. Former Wrestling Federation president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh claims their Congress party affiliation confirms his previous accusations. Vinesh Phogat to contest from Julana, Punia appointed working president of All India Kisan Congress.

Wrestler Bajrang Punia extended support to fellow wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who is contesting the Haryana Assembly elections from Julana. Punia vowed to undertake responsibilities assigned by the party's 'High Command'. He stated, 'We had decided that only one of us would contest, and she is contesting. I stand with Vinesh.'

Responding to allegations that wrestlers' protests were backed by the Congress, Punia asserted that there was no political influence then. 'Why were we made to sit on protest? We had nothing to do with politics then. We did not allow any politicians on our stage initially,' he emphasized.

Expressing gratitude, Punia commented, 'I hope to receive the same love in politics as in wrestling. I have come to serve people and will work hard at the grassroots.' Former Wrestling Federation president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh claimed their affiliation with Congress confirms his accusations. Singh alleged the protest was under Congress's influence, led by figures like Bhupinder Hooda. The wrestlers joined Congress ahead of the Haryana polls, with Phogat fielded in Julana and Punia appointed as working president of the All India Kisan Congress.

(With inputs from agencies.)