Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia has come under fire after being spotted standing on a 'Tiranga' (Indian tricolor) poster while receiving fellow wrestler Vinesh Phogat at Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi on August 17.
Phogat, who had returned from the Paris Olympics, was given a grand reception following the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) ruling that upheld her disqualification from the gold medal match.
Despite a strong performance in the earlier rounds, Phogat’s appeal for a silver medal was denied due to weight category violations.
Punia, along with wrestler Sakshi Malik, was at the airport to welcome Phogat.
However, during the bustling reception, a video surfaced showing Punia standing on a car bonnet where a 'Tiranga' poster was displayed.
The incident, captured in the viral footage, sparked outrage on social media, with many accusing Punia of disrespecting the Indian national flag.
Critics argued that, despite the likely unintentional nature of the act, standing on the poster symbolised a disregard for the national symbol.
Social media users voiced their disapproval, condemning the act as insensitive.
Phogat, visibly emotional upon her arrival, was met with a massive crowd.
The athlete, who had been waiting in Paris for a verdict on her disqualification, broke down in tears upon seeing the support from her fellow citizens.
Her disqualification from the final at the Olympics, due to a weight discrepancy of 100 grams, had been a subject of contention, and the CAS decision to dismiss her appeal added to her distress.
At the reception, Punia praised Phogat for her perseverance, describing her as a champion despite the Olympic setback. "She (Vinesh Phogat) is being welcomed like a champion.
The country saw Vinesh's journey from the streets to the podium.
We thank all the countrymen," Punia said, highlighting Phogat's resilience and the warm reception she received from the crowd.
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