Vinesh Phogat Backs Farmers at Shambhu Border, Urges Focus on Their Struggle

GG News Bureau
Shambhu Border, Haryana, 31st August. Olympic wrestler Vinesh Phogat on Saturday reached the farmers’ protest site at the Shambhu border, extending her support to the ongoing agitation. Speaking at the site, Phogat emphasized her solidarity with the farmers, stating that as a “daughter,” she stands with them and prays for their rights and justice to be upheld.

Phogat dismissed speculation about her potential entry into politics, reaffirming her identity as an athlete who represents the entire nation. “I am an athlete; I belong to the entire country. I have nothing to do with which state is going to the polls. All I know is that my country is suffering, farmers are in trouble. Their issues should be resolved, and it should be the first priority of the Government to resolve this,” Phogat said.

When questioned by reporters about the possibility of contesting the Haryana elections if offered a ticket by the Congress party, Phogat declined to engage in political discussions. “I will not speak on this, I will not talk about politics. I have come to my family. If you talk about this, you would waste their struggle and fight. The focus is not on me today. The focus should be on the farmers, I request this,” she stated.

Addressing the farmers, Phogat acknowledged the significance of their ongoing struggle, which has now reached the 200-day mark. “Your agitation completes 200 days today. I pray to God that you get what you have come here for—your right, for justice…Your daughter stands with you. I also urge the Government. We too are citizens of this country; if we raise our voices, it is not political every time…You should hear them…What they are demanding is not unlawful,” she said.

As she arrived at the protest site, Phogat was warmly welcomed and felicitated by farmer leaders. The protest at the Shambhu border has now been ongoing for 200 days.

Phogat’s visit comes after a challenging period in her wrestling career. Despite reaching the final of the women’s 50kg event, she returned from the Paris Olympics without a medal. On August 7, Phogat was disqualified before the final due to breaching the 50kg weight limit. The setback led to her announcing her retirement from wrestling. Phogat had appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to award her a joint silver medal, but the CAS ultimately dismissed her application.