In a recent development that has stirred the political and sports arenas, former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and BJP leader Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh has lashed out at renowned wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia following their decision to join the Congress party. This move comes ahead of the Haryana assembly elections, adding a new dimension to the ongoing political drama.
Allegations of Political Conspiracy
Brij Bhushan has been vocal about his belief that the wrestlers’ protest against him, which began two years ago, was politically motivated. He claims that the entire movement was orchestrated by the Congress party, particularly targeting prominent leaders like Bhupinder Hooda and Deepender Hooda. According to Brij Bhushan, the script for this political drama was written long before the wrestlers took to the streets.
The Wrestlers’ Protest
The protest against Brij Bhushan began in January 2023, with Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia, and other wrestlers accusing him of sexual harassment. The allegations led to a significant outcry, with many demanding justice for the athletes. Brij Bhushan, however, has consistently denied these allegations, asserting that they were part of a larger political conspiracy to tarnish his image.
#WATCH | On Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia joining Congress, Former WFI president and BJP leader Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh says, "On 18th January 2023 when the protest started at Jantar Mantar, I had said that this is not a movement of sportspersons, Congress is behind it,… pic.twitter.com/XLcwz34R4R
— ANI (@ANI) September 7, 2024
Joining Congress: A Political Move?
The decision of Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia to join the Congress party has been seen by many as a strategic move ahead of the Haryana assembly elections. Brij Bhushan has criticized this decision, stating that it further proves his point about the political motivations behind the protest. He has accused the Congress of using the wrestlers for their political gain, rather than genuinely supporting their cause.
Brij Bhushan’s Response
In his response to the wrestlers joining Congress, Brij Bhushan did not hold back. He accused the Congress of exploiting the wrestlers and using them as pawns in their political game. He also targeted Bhupinder Hooda, claiming that the former Haryana Chief Minister was the mastermind behind the entire protest. Brij Bhushan’s statements have added fuel to the fire, intensifying the political battle in Haryana.
The Impact on Haryana Elections
The entry of Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia into the political arena is expected to have a significant impact on the upcoming Haryana assembly elections. Both wrestlers are highly respected figures in the state, and their decision to join Congress could sway public opinion. Brij Bhushan, however, remains confident that the BJP will emerge victorious, stating that even a minor BJP candidate could defeat the wrestlers in the elections.
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