Vinesh Phogat Likely To Contest Haryana Assembly Elections Against Cousin Babita Phogat

Ace wrestler Vinesh Phogat may soon enter the political arena, with sources close to her revealing she is being courted to contest the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections.

Although Vinesh had previously stated she would not pursue active politics, recent reports indicate that several political parties are actively trying to persuade her to reconsider.

Vinesh recently garnered attention for her disqualification from the women’s freestyle 50kg category at the Paris Olympics due to being 100g overweight, missing her chance at a gold medal.

Despite this setback, she received a hero’s welcome in both New Delhi and her hometown of Balali, Sonipat. Among those greeting her at the airport were Congress MP Deepender Hooda and his family, fueling further speculation about her political future.

While the party Vinesh may join remains unconfirmed, the possibility of her facing off against fellow wrestling stars such as Babita Phogat and Bajrang Punia in the political ring is being discussed. Sources close to the Phogat family said, “Some political parties are trying to convince her.”

On Friday, Vinesh expressed her regret over missing the Olympic podium, connecting her disappointment to the broader fight for women’s rights in India, a cause she actively championed during her protests against the former wrestling federation chief.

In a heartfelt three-page letter posted on X (formerly Twitter), she hinted at a possible return to the sport despite her earlier decision to retire after her Olympic disqualification.

Vinesh’s disqualification occurred when she failed to make weight for the final match. Her appeal for a joint silver medal was dismissed by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) on Wednesday.

ALSO READ:: Vinesh Phogat’s Emotional Return To India After Paris Olympics Heartbreak