Slap Sedition Case! Vinesh Phogat Demands Action On People Who Are Happy That She Didn't Win At Paris Olympics

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat has responded to comments made by former BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, suggesting that those who celebrated her loss at the Paris Olympics should face sedition charges for disrespecting the nation. Phogat, who recently joined Congress and was named as the candidate for Julana constituency in the Haryana assembly polls, expressed her views in an interview with India Today.

Political Reactions and Accusations

Phogat stated, "We have been hearing such statements (by BJP leaders) for the last 1.5 years. This shows their mentality. If they are saying that they are happy that I didn't win at Paris Olympics, they should be tried for sedition. That medal didn't belong to me but to the whole nation. They have disrespected the nation." Her remarks came after Singh's jibe at her and fellow wrestler Bajrang Punia.

Singh had earlier commented, "God has punished them for cheating," referring to Phogat and Punia's performance at the Olympics. He questioned Phogat's actions during the trials, asking, "I want to ask Vinesh Phogat whether a player can give trials in 2 weight categories in a day? Can the trials be stopped for 5 hours after the weigh-in?... You did not win the wrestling; you went there by cheating. God has punished you for the same."

Joining Congress

Both Phogat and Punia met with LS LoP Rahul Gandhi and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge before officially joining Congress at an event held at party headquarters. The event was attended by General Secretary (Organisation) K C Venugopal.

Punia was appointed as the working chairman of the All India Kisan Congress shortly after joining the political party. This move signifies a significant shift in their careers from sports to politics.

Olympic Journey

Phogat faced numerous challenges to reach the final of the women's freestyle 50 kg event at the Paris Olympics but was disqualified due to being overweight by a few grams. Despite this setback, she remains a prominent figure in Indian wrestling.

The controversy surrounding her Olympic performance and subsequent political involvement highlights ongoing tensions between athletes and political figures in India.

The statements made by Singh have sparked debates about respect for national athletes and their contributions to representing India on international platforms.

This development comes amid preparations for upcoming elections, adding another layer of complexity to an already charged political atmosphere.

The involvement of prominent athletes like Phogat and Punia in politics could influence public opinion and voter behaviour in future elections.

Their transition from sports to politics reflects broader trends of athletes leveraging their fame and influence to effect change beyond their sporting careers.

This story continues to unfold as both wrestlers navigate their new roles within Congress while addressing past controversies related to their athletic achievements.