Newly inducted Congress leader Vinesh Phogat went on the campaign trail on Sunday ahead of the Haryana Assembly elections. The wrestler — fresh from a major setback at the Paris Olympics — joined the party on Friday and soon emerged as its candidate for the Julana seat.
“I have forgotten the pain I had to endure because of the love and respect I got from you. Therefore, I will remain grateful if I can reduce your suffering. Jind land is historical and the people here are very brave,” she said.
Voting for the 90-member legislative assembly in Haryana will take place on October 5 and the last date for filing nominations is September 12. The counting of votes will take place on October 8.
Phogat also said on Sunday that she received “a warm welcome in every part of the country” as she began her election campaign on Sunday. She was greeted with garlands when she reached Julana – many, including elders and women and members of various 'Khaps', blessed her.
“It feels good, people are very excited, the responsibility we have been given, the Congress party has sent us here as candidates, so people are giving us love and support. Our people will let me win and I am a winner in their eyes, so nothing can be bigger than this,” she added.
Olympians Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia, who are known for their athletic prowess and for leading the wrestling protest against then WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, on Friday entered the political arena by joining the Congress.
Earlier on Saturday, the wrestler-turned-politician met Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda and said her new path is not just politics but a fight for service and justice on a new platform.
(With input from agencies)