Vinesh Phogat Files Nomination for Haryana Assembly Elections

Former wrestler Vinesh Phogat, backed by Congress leaders, filed her nomination for the Julana Assembly constituency. Expressing gratitude to the people, she committed to welfare efforts. Phogat, who joined Congress recently, faces BJP's Captain Yogesh Bairagi. Voting takes place on October 5, with results on October 8.

Former wrestler and Congress candidate Vinesh Phogat submitted her nomination for the Julana Assembly constituency on Wednesday, ahead of the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections. Accompanied by Congress MP Deepender Hooda and other state leaders, Phogat expressed her gratitude to the constituency's residents for their support.

Phogat emphasized her party's dedication to public welfare. 'Entering politics is a fortunate opportunity for me. We are working diligently for the welfare of all sections. I am thankful for the love the people of Julana are showing me,' she stated during a press meeting after filing her nomination.

Phogat, alongside Olympian wrestler Bajrang Punia, joined Congress on September 6, boosting the party's prospects. She will contest against BJP candidate Captain Yogesh Bairagi, who also filed his nomination earlier that day.

Congress MP Deepender Hooda expressed confidence in the party's statewide success. 'We will secure victory not only in Julana but across Haryana. The people have decided to establish a Congress-led government under Bhupinder Hooda's leadership. Julana residents are determined to elect Vinesh Phogat, who has bravely stood up for the dignity of women,' Hooda commented.

Regarding the breakdown of alliance talks with AAP, Hooda attributed it to AAP's decision. 'Respecting the national-level alliance, we engaged with INDIA bloc partners, including AAP, but they chose to announce their candidates,' he explained.

Elections for Haryana's 90-member legislative assembly are set for October 5, with nomination submissions due by September 12. Vote counting will occur on October 8. In the 2019 elections, BJP emerged as the largest party with 40 seats, while Congress secured 30.

(With inputs from agencies.)