Vinesh's Olympic disqualification triggers uproar in Parliament, opposition walks out
The members of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance walked out of Rajya Sabha on Thursday after being denied a discussion on wrestler Vinesh Phogat's disqualification from the 2024 Paris Olympics. Phogat was disqualified on Wednesday for being 100 grams overweight before her 50-kg freestyle gold medal match. When Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge raised the issue and wanted to know "who's behind it," Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar did not permit the discussion.
Why does this story matter?
Phogat, who announced her retirement from wrestling Thursday, had made history as the first Indian female wrestler to reach the 50kg Olympic final by winning three matches on Tuesday. The 29-year-old, typically competing in the 53kg category, had moved to the 50kg weight class for the Paris Olympics. Phogat lodged a protest at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), requesting a joint-silver medal. The matter is expected to be heard later in the day.
TMC leader also raises issue
Soon after, Trinamool Congress MP Derek O'Brien attempted to raise issues but was denied by the Chair. Dhankhar warned O'Brien, saying, "You are shouting at the Chair. Your conduct is the ugliest in the House. I condemn your actions. Next time, I will show you the door." As the uproar grew, opposition leaders walked out in protest.
Dhankhar criticizes opposition's conduct, walks out
Dhankhar commented that the opposition believes they are the "only ones whose hearts are bleeding" after Phogat's unexpected Olympic exit. He said, "The entire nation is in pain... But to politicize it is the greatest disrespect to her [Phogat]." Later, Dhankhar walked out, expressing that he did not receive "support" from the House.
INDIA bloc MPs dissatisfaction with Mandaviya's statement
Earlier on Tuesday, INDIA bloc members walked out of the Lok Sabha, expressing dissatisfaction with Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya's statement on Phogat. Some opposition leaders also criticized Mandaviya for detailing the financial assistance provided for her Olympic preparations. To recall, on Wednesday in the Lok Sabha, Mandaviya said that the government had offered all necessary assistance to Phogat, including personal staff. He also noted that ₹70,45,775 was provided for her Paris Olympic cycle.
Indian Olympic Association protests disqualification
Meanwhile, the Indian Olympic Association has lodged a strong protest with the world wrestling body over Phogat's disqualification. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has asked IOA chief PT Usha—who is in Paris—to take appropriate action in the matter. The incident has also led to allegations of conspiracy by Congress MP Randeep Surjewala and ex-boxer Vijender Singh. The Haryana government has urged against politicizing the issue, while Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra have expressed their solidarity with Phogat.
