Today, members of the Opposition INDIA bloc staged a walkout from the Rajya Sabha after being denied the opportunity to discuss the disqualification of wrestler Vinesh Phogat from the Paris Olympics 2024. Phogat was disqualified on Wednesday for being 100 grams overweight, just hours before her scheduled match against US wrestler Sarah Ann Hildebrandt in the 50-kg freestyle gold medal bout.
Congress Member of Parliament Pramod Tiwari expressed the INDIA bloc’s frustration to reporters outside the Parliament, stating, “We wanted to discuss the issues surrounding her Olympic disqualification, but the government is not ready.” Tiwari also offered words of encouragement to Phogat, who announced her retirement from wrestling today, urging her not to lose hope and assuring her that the entire nation supports her.
Opposition Slams Sports Minister Over Vinesh Phogat’s Disqualification Amid Financial Support Debate
This walkout in the Rajya Sabha follows a similar protest in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday. Members of the INDIA bloc expressed dissatisfaction with the Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya’s statement on Phogat’s disqualification. Some Opposition leaders criticised Mandaviya for focusing on the financial assistance provided to the wrestler for her Olympic preparations.
In his statement, Mandaviya, a senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) member, highlighted the government’s support for Phogat, including the provision of personal staff. He revealed that a total of Rs 7,045,775 had been allocated for her Paris Olympic preparations.
Also Read: Vinesh disqualification: IOA has filed a strong protest, says Sports minister
Mandaviya Defends Phogat Disqualification Amidst Fierce Debate and Political Fallout
Mandaviya explained the disqualification process, stating, “Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has been disqualified from the Paris Olympics due to being 100 grams overweight. Vinesh was competing in the 50 kg category, and her weight had to meet the 50 kg requirement. According to the rules of United World Wrestling [UWW], weigh-ins are conducted every morning for each category.” He added, “According to Article 11, if an athlete does not participate or fails in the weigh-in [first or second], they are disqualified from the competition and placed last without any rank.”
The disqualification has sparked significant debate, with many questioning the stringent enforcement of the weigh-in rules and the support provided to athletes. The INDIA bloc’s walkout underscores the broader political ramifications of the issue, as they demand a more thorough discussion and reassessment of policies affecting Indian athletes on the international stage.
