Wrestlers Pin Hopes on Vinesh Phogat for Sports Ministry

Women wrestlers in Haryana are hoping that Vinesh Phogat, if elected as the sports minister, will address the challenges they face, especially after protests against sexual harassment in the Wrestling Federation of India. Phogat's performance and political ambitions have garnered support from the local wrestling community.

Women wrestlers in Haryana are putting their hopes on Vinesh Phogat to address the challenges they face, especially after sexual harassment protests in the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). Phogat, contesting assembly elections, could become a champion for these athletes in the state's political landscape.

Phogat's political journey follows the January 2023 protests led by top wrestlers like Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia, demanding the resignation of former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh due to allegations of harassment. This has led to more young women wrestling dropouts.

Vinesh Phogat's possible election is seen as a beacon of hope. Her Olympic performance and support from the wrestling community could motivate parents skeptical about sending their daughters to akhada for training, addressing key issues like unemployment and limited government support.

(With inputs from agencies.)