Vinesh Phogat Stands in Solidarity with Farmers at Shambhu Border Protest
Olympian wrestler Vinesh Phogat expressed her unwavering support for the farmers’ protest at the Shambhu border in Haryana on Saturday. Phogat, who referred to herself as a “daughter” of the farmers, visited the protest site to show her solidarity and pray for the farmers’ rights and justice.
Addressing the gathered crowd, Phogat emphasized that she is an athlete who belongs to the entire nation and has no political ambitions or affiliations, especially in the context of the upcoming state assembly elections. “I am an athlete; I belong to the entire country. I have nothing to do with which state is going to the polls. All I know is that my country is suffering, farmers are in trouble. Their issues should be resolved, and it should be the first priority of the Government to resolve this,” she stated.
When questioned by reporters about the possibility of contesting the Haryana elections if offered a ticket by Congress, Phogat firmly declined to discuss politics. “I will not speak on this, I will not talk about politics. I have come to my family. If you talk about this, you would waste their struggle and fight. The focus is not on me today. The focus should be on the farmers; I request this,” she responded.
During her visit, Phogat acknowledged the perseverance of the farmers who have been protesting for 200 days, urging the government to listen to their demands. “Your agitation completes 200 days today. I pray to God that you get what you have come here for—your right, for justice…Your daughter stands with you. I also urge the Government. We too are citizens of this country; if we raise our voices, it is not political every time…You should hear them…What they are demanding is not unlawful,” she added.
Phogat’s appearance at the protest site was met with warmth, as farmer leaders honored her for her support. Despite recent challenges in her wrestling career, including a heartbreaking disqualification at the Paris Olympics, Vinesh Phogat remains committed to standing with the farmers in their ongoing struggle.