Vinesh Phogat, a celebrated Indian wrestler, made headlines again, not just for her athletic prowess but for her political debut in Haryana’s 2024 elections.
Vinesh contested from the Julana constituency on a Congress ticket and emerged victorious with a margin of 6,015 votes. This was a landmark victory as Congress won the seat for the first time in 19 years
She faced stiff competition from BJP’s Yogesh Bairagi, incumbent JJP MLA Amarjeet Dhanda, and fellow wrestler and AAP candidate Kavita Dalal
After leading several protests for athletes' rights, Vinesh officially joined politics in 2024, stepping into a new arena to fight for social issues
Vinesh’s campaign highlighted key concerns in Haryana, such as unemployment, women's safety, and agricultural issues, positioning her as a strong voice against the ruling BJP
Support from Congress Leaders During the campaign, Vinesh was seen alongside prominent Congress leaders like Bhupinder Singh Hooda and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, gaining widespread support
A Family Divided Over Politics Her political move sparked tensions within the Phogat family, with cousin Babita Phogat, a BJP leader, publicly criticizing Vinesh’s decision to join Congress
A Double Impact - Sports and Politics Vinesh’s dual role as a top athlete and a rising politician has inspired many in Haryana, particularly in rural areas, where her victory is seen as a win for both sports and social justice
Her Message to Voters After casting her vote, Vinesh emphasized the importance of choosing leaders who will prioritize the rights of women and farmers, urging people to take action
What’s Next for Vinesh Phogat? With her victory in the Julana constituency, all eyes are on Vinesh’s next steps in politics. She aims to work for the entire state of Haryana, making a significant impact both in and out of politics