Wrestler Vinesh Phogat's disqualification from the 50 kg Olympic wrestling finals due to a minor weight issue has sparked allegations of conspiracy from Congress MP Balwant Wankhede.
The MP suggested on Wednesday that the disqualification was linked to her protests against former BJP MP Brijbhushan Sharan Singh.
Phogat, who missed the finals for being slightly overweight, will not receive the silver medal. Wankhede described the disqualification as "very sad news" and hinted at foul play.
“There is some conspiracy behind this. The entire country knows she was protesting at Jantar Mantar. She did not get justice and now if she wins, they would have had to honour her which some people might not have liked,” Wankhede claimed.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks to PT Usha
In response to the controversy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi contacted Indian Olympics Association chief PT Usha to explore possible actions against the decision.
Expressing his support on social media platform X, Modi wrote, "Vinesh, you are a champion among champions! You are India's pride and an inspiration for each and every Indian. Today's setback hurts. I wish words could express the sense of despair that I am experiencing. At the same time, I know that you epitomise resilience. It has always been your nature to take challenges head-on. Come back stronger! We are all rooting for you."
Phogat was one of several international wrestlers who protested against Brijbhushan Sharan Singh at Jantar Mantar, alleging sexual harassment. Singh, who was removed as the wrestling federation chief, did not contest in the recent Lok Sabha polls.
However, his son won the seat on a BJP ticket, which Singh later described as a sign of the party's continued support.
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