Wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia joined the Congress party on Friday. Ahead of their induction, both athletes visited the residence of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge in what was described as a courtesy call. Party General Secretary KC Venugopal was also present at Kharge's residence during the visit.
From Wrestling Arena to Political Battlefield
With their move to the Congress party, Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia are transitioning from the wrestling arena to the political field. This development comes just before the Haryana Assembly elections, signaling their potential involvement in state politics.
After meeting with the wrestlers, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge expressed his enthusiasm on social media. He posted, "Chak De India, Chak De Haryana! Meeting our talented champions Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia at 10 Rajaji Marg, who have made India proud in the world. We are proud of both of you."
Earlier Indications of a Political Move
Prior to this official announcement, Bajrang Punia had hinted at their political entry by confirming that both he and Vinesh would be joining Congress on Friday. Speculations about their potential political move had been circulating for some time, especially after their earlier meeting with Rahul Gandhi.
Vinesh Phogat Resigns from Railway Job
Before joining Congress, Vinesh Phogat resigned from her job with the Indian Railways, an announcement she made herself. In her statement, she described her time with the Railways as one of the most memorable and proud periods of her life. She wrote on social media, "At this juncture of life, I have decided to separate myself from the railway service and have submitted my resignation to the competent officials of the Indian Railways. I will always be grateful to the Indian Railways family for this opportunity given to me in the service of the nation."
Speculations About Electoral Candidacy
There are ongoing speculations regarding which seats the wrestlers might contest from. It is rumored that Vinesh Phogat could be given a ticket from the Dadri constituency. Meanwhile, Bajrang Punia is reportedly seeking a ticket from the Badli constituency, but the Congress party is considering fielding him from a Jat-dominated seat instead.
Potential Impact on Haryana Politics
Vinesh Phogat's entry into politics could significantly impact Haryana's political landscape. Her strong connections with Khap Panchayats and farmers in the region could potentially translate into substantial electoral support. Her role in the upcoming assembly elections could be a pivotal factor in the state's political dynamics.
Haryana Assembly Elections Scheduled for October
The Haryana Assembly elections are set to be held on October 5, with the counting of votes scheduled for October 8. Initially, these dates were October 1 and 4, but the Election Commission rescheduled them to honor the traditions of the Bishnoi community. The Bishnois celebrate the Asoj Amavasya festival in memory of their guru Jambeshwar, a tradition that has been observed for the past 490 years in Nokha tehsil of Rajasthan.
With the election dates drawing near, the entry of prominent athletes like Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia into politics adds a new dimension to the upcoming political contest in Haryana.
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