Vinesh Phogat Reveals What Priyanka Gandhi Said When Protesting Wrestlers Thought Of Leaving Country

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat, now a Congress candidate for the Julana Assembly constituency, has revealed what transpired during the wrestlers’ protests when they considered leaving the country. Phogat shared that when the situation seemed hopeless, Priyanka Gandhi stepped in and encouraged the wrestlers to stand their ground. “We felt we should leave the country, but Priyanka Gandhi told us not to lose courage and to answer through wrestling,” Phogat said.

Phogat, who joined the Congress party on Friday, expressed her gratitude towards the party, acknowledging its support during the protests against sexual harassment in the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). She also recalled the incident where the protestors were manhandled by the police in Delhi and expressed disappointment that the BJP was the only party that did not stand with them.

Phogat, along with fellow wrestler Bajrang Punia, met Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge before officially joining the party. Reflecting on her decision to enter politics, Phogat remarked that her wrestling career has been an inspiration for women and young girls, and she intends to continue serving the people with the same dedication. “I will stand with women who think they are alone, and the Congress party will stand with them too,” she stated.

Prior to her political debut, Phogat resigned from her role as an Officer on Special Duty (OSD) with Northern Railways. She is fielded to contest the Haryana elections from the Julana seat, currently held by the Jannayak Janta Party’s Amarjeet Dhanda.

Earlier, Phogat and Punia along with other wrestlers led protests against BJP MP and WFI president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, accusing him of sexual misconduct. Despite facing allegations of staging a fake protest, Phogat remains resolute in her fight for justice and equality.

The Haryana Assembly elections are set for October 5, with vote counting on October 8.