Political Spats, “Conspiracy” Charges After Vinesh Phogat Disqualified

New Delhi: 

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat‘s heartbreaking disqualification from the Paris Olympics today – for being 100 grams overweight – was followed by strong political reactions, with the Congress-led opposition raising questions. Ms Phogat was removed from the competition hours before she was to take on the United States’ Sarah Ann Hildebrandt in the 50-kg freestyle final.

Shortly after the disqualification Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X, calling Ms Phogat “a champion among champions” and urging her to “come back stronger”. “Today’s setback hurts. I wish words could express the sense of despair I am experiencing. At the same time… you epitomise resilience. It has always been your nature to take challenges head-on. We are rooting for you.”

The opposition has launched multiple attacks on the government, including a nuanced jab served up by Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, who called for a probe into the “technical reasons”