Indian PM Narendra Modi urges the IOA Chief to challenge wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification from the 2024 Paris Olympics, advocating for fair play and justice.
Trigger Warning: This article contains details of violence and assault, which could be triggering for some readers.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged the Indian Olympic Association to file a strong protest regarding the Vinesh Phogat controversy. In a heartbreaking turn of events, Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from her gold medal bout this morning. Competing in the 50 kg female division, Phogat allegedly failed to make weight by 100 grams.
Reports indicate that Phogat had been making extreme efforts to cut weight, including staying up the night before, doing extensive cardio, and skipping meals. This extreme approach backfired, and she was taken to the hospital for severe dehydration shortly after her disqualification.
When Phogat missed her weight by the narrowest of margins, she requested more time to cut down, but the IOC denied the request. Reacting to the news, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to his X account and wrote, “Vinesh, you are a champion among champions! You are India’s pride and an inspiration for each and every Indian. Today’s setback hurts. I wish words could express the sense of despair that I am experiencing. At the same time, I know that you epitomize resilience. It has always been your nature to take challenges head-on. Come back stronger! We are all rooting for you.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called on PT Usha, the President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), to conduct a thorough investigation into the Vinesh Phogat disqualification incident. Following initial discussions, the Indian government is exploring and implementing possible options regarding the matter.
Such strong support from the Indian government is likely to bring some comfort to Phogat, especially given her past tensions with the government. Modi’s words of praise will serve as a shield for her during this difficult time.
Last year, Vinesh Phogat, along with Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia, led a significant protest against Brij Bhushan Sharan, the then-chief of the Wrestling Federation of India. Sharan faced accusations of sexually harassing female wrestlers. During the protests, disturbing images of Phogat being kicked and bruised shocked many. Bajrang Punia later detailed the violent experiences via an X post. As a result of the protest, Sharan resigned from the WFI after 12 years, and the BJP decided not to include him as a candidate for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
In Paris 2024, Vinesh Phogat was on a remarkable run. She defeated the reigning Olympic champion Yui Susaki and advanced to the semi-finals, where she overcame Ukraine’s O. Livach to reach the finals. However, tragedy struck, and Phogat will be returning home without a medal. The IOC has announced that the women’s 50kg division will not award a silver medal, with only gold and bronze medals being given.
