Former Haryana Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Bhupinder Singh Hooda on Tuesday demanded immediate intervention of the Union Sports Minister in the matter concerning wrestler Vinesh Phogat, saying the allegations raised by the Olympian were serious and required urgent attention.
Hooda said Vinesh Phogat had brought pride to the country on several occasions and it was the responsibility of the Central government and sports authorities to ensure that her dignity and rights are protected.
He stated that if Vinesh Phogat wishes to compete in events such as the Asian Games or other international tournaments on the basis of merit, she must be given a fair opportunity. He alleged that during a recent event in Gonda, she was neither allowed to participate nor permitted to use the training facility.
Raising concerns over the functioning of the Wrestling Federation of India, Hooda said the federation had often been under scrutiny and therefore the Union Sports Minister should personally take cognisance of the issue to ensure justice for the athlete.
"In our country, there are only a handful of athletes who manage to reach the Olympic stage and possess the capability to win medals. Vinesh is one such wrestler. Even during the Paris Olympics, Vinesh Phogat had reached a position where a gold medal seemed within her grasp, but fate did not favor her in the final moments. Despite winning numerous matches, she was ultimately deprived of a medal," he remarked.
Hooda said that if Vinesh Phogat wishes to make a comeback through hard work and continue winning medals for the country, sports bodies should extend full support instead of creating obstacles or discrimination.
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