Wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia to Contest Haryana Assembly Elections for Congress
Haryana Assembly Elections 2024 – two well-acknowledged Indian wrestlers-Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia-are all set to take the political plunge. The two sports stars are likely to contest the subsequent polls as Congress candidates. While Phogat might represent Julana, Punia is in the fray from Badli. Confirmation of their candidature is expected to come out soon by CEC, Congress Central Election Committee. This is going to be a very strong definition in the political arena of Haryana, a perfect amalgamation of sports and politics.
Vinesh Phogat to Contest from Julana
Vinesh Phogat, the star wrestler, is likely to contest from the Julana constituency in the forthcoming Haryana Assembly polls. Julana is presently represented by Amarjeet Dhanda of the Jannayak Janta Party-eruption. Sources said Phogat had preferred Julana, though there were some preliminary discussions about her contesting from a constituency close to Gurugram. Phogat’s possible candidature gives a fresh dimension to the Julana race with her keenly watched political entry.
Bajrang Punia to Defend Cong Seat in Badli
Another wrestling icon, Bajrang Punia is expected to enter the fray from Badli-a seat currently held by the Congress. This factor appears to be a well-calculated thing on the part of Congress to retain the seat. His candidature is likely to be declared shortly by the Congress. In fact, Punia’s candidature comes as part of the party’s bigger game plan to field popular faces in important constituencies.
Meeting with Rahul Gandhi and AICC Statement
Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia recently met with former Congress president Rahul Gandhi in Delhi. The meeting has spurred speculation over their imminent political plunge, although candidatures have not yet been declared by Congress. The party has assured, however, that clarity will be provided soon.
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Connection to Recent Protests and Phogat’s Retirement
Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia were at the forefront of their wrestlers’ protest against BJP leader Bajrang Punia over allegations of sexual harassment. This further complicates any potential interest from them in political careers because they have now spoken very strongly against the ruling party. Phogat recently announced her retirement from wrestling after a disqualification in a 50 kg gold medal bout. Her transition from sports into politics has been one of the prime areas of speculation, given the family’s background in the sport, extending into politics when her cousin Babita Phogat is a BJP MLA.
