Olympic wrestler Bajrang Punia reported receiving death threats on Sunday. He stated that the threats came through a WhatsApp call from an international number, demanding that he leave the Congress party or face dire consequences. Punia reported the incident to the police, who have since launched an investigation. The caller reportedly told him this was his “first and last warning.”
Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat Join Congress Ahead of Haryana Polls
Ahead of the Haryana assembly elections, Bajrang Punia and fellow Olympian Vinesh Phogat officially joined the Congress party last week. The duo was welcomed by senior leaders KC Venugopal and Pawan Khera at an event in the national capital. While Phogat is set to contest from the Julana seat, Punia has been appointed the Working Chairman of the All India Kisan Congress.
Vinesh Phogat’s Statement on Politics and Support for Women
Phogat expressed her gratitude to the Congress party for their support during the wrestlers’ protest, saying, “Congress is ready to fight for the women of this country.” She assured the women of India that they would stand by them and pushed back against accusations from the BJP that their political involvement was a distraction from their wrestling careers.
Bajrang Punia Criticizes BJP’s Response to Protests
Punia criticized the BJP for not supporting their cause during the protests, stating that they had reached out to BJP leaders without receiving a response. He praised the Congress for standing by them, even without being asked. He further alleged that while the nation sympathized with Vinesh Phogat, the BJP’s IT cell celebrated their struggles.
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Congress Welcomes the Wrestling Champions
Haryana Congress chief Udai Bhan and party general secretary KC Venugopal welcomed both wrestlers into the party, praising their courage and commitment. Venugopal remarked that leaders are born during movements, referencing their involvement in farmer and Agniveer protests.
Resignation from Indian Railways
Ahead of their political debut, both Phogat and Punia resigned from their posts in the Indian Railways. Punia, in his resignation letter, expressed his gratitude to Northern Railways, acknowledging the guidance he received during his tenure. He cited personal reasons for his resignation, asking to be relieved of his duties as OSD Sports, Northern Railways.
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