Vinesh Phogat Denounces BJP Ahead of Haryana Assembly Elections

Wrestler-turned-politician Vinesh Phogat, a Congress candidate, criticizes the BJP government before the Haryana Assembly elections on October 5. She asserts that Congress' symbol of 'Hand' will metaphorically slap the BJP. Vinesh, competing against BJP's Captain Yogesh Bairagi, vows to fight for the respect of Haryana’s people.

Vinesh Phogat, the celebrated wrestler-turned-politician, has launched a vigorous critique of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in the lead-up to the Haryana Assembly elections scheduled for October 5. Phogat, who recently declared her candidacy from the Julana Assembly constituency under the Congress banner, filed her nomination last week.

Utilizing the Congress party's 'Hand' symbol as a poignant metaphor, Phogat declared it would act as a 'slap' against the BJP government. She urged voters not to err in their choice, emphasizing, 'This time, Congress' symbol of hand will act as a slap. On October 5, this slap will strike in Delhi.'

Phogat further accused the BJP government of failing to respect the people of Haryana. She lamented the perceived disrespect endured by constituents over the past decade and denounced the government's lack of action against issues such as unemployment. 'We are willing to put our lives on the line to protect our respect, but the BJP government has not respected it,' she asserted.

The former wrestler became a prominent figure in the protest against ex-Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and BJP leader Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh following allegations of sexual harassment. Phogat joined Congress on September 6, along with fellow Olympian wrestler Bajrang Punia, after her disqualification from the women's 50kg final at the Paris Olympics.

In the upcoming elections, Phogat faces BJP candidate Captain Yogesh Bairagi in Julana. The vote count is set for October 8. In the 2019 assembly polls, the BJP emerged as the single-largest party with 40 seats, while Congress secured 30 seats.

(With inputs from agencies.)