Former Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has resigned from her position with Indian Railways, fuelling speculation that she may soon join the Congress party ahead of the Haryana assembly elections.
Phogat, who served as an Officer on Special Duty (OSD) with Northern Railways, cited personal reasons for her decision.
Announcing her resignation on social media platform X, Vinesh shared a picture of her resignation letter, writing, "Serving Indian Railways has been a memorable and proud time of my life."
She expressed her gratitude to the Railways for providing her with the opportunity to serve the nation.
The 30-year-old former wrestler’s decision comes just days after her meeting with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, which sparked rumours of her potential entry into politics. Speculation is rife that she could be planning to contest the upcoming Haryana assembly polls on a Congress ticket.
Phogat’s letter of resignation, addressed to the General Manager of Northern Railways, read, "Sir, keeping in view of my family circumstances/personal reasons, I am unable to perform my duties as OSD/Sports. Therefore, without any pressure, I wish to tender my resignation."
She also requested that her resignation be accepted with immediate effect, stating her willingness to forgo her one-month notice period by depositing an equivalent amount of salary.
"It is kindly requested that my resignation with immediate effect may be accepted from Northern Railway. One month salary will be deposited in lieu of my one-month notice period," she added.
Vinesh Phogat, once a celebrated name in Indian wrestling, stepped away from the sport after being disqualified from the 50kg gold medal match at the Paris Olympics due to a minor weight issue.
Her appeal against the decision was subsequently rejected by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
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