Rahul Gandhi at Haryana akhara with Bajrang Punia
Jhajjar, December 27: In a notable visit to the Virender Arya Akhara in Haryana's Jhajjar district, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi engaged in interactions with wrestlers, notably Bajrang Punia, amidst the unfolding controversy surrounding the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI).
Gandhi's visit to the akhara coincides with the heated dispute over the WFI. The Ministry of Sports recently suspended the WFI following the announcement by the organisation's new president, Sanjay Singh, regarding the scheduling of the U-15 and U-20 nationals later this year. The decision sparked discontent among wrestlers who had previously accused former WFI president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of sexual harassment. Their frustration stems from Sanjay Singh's close ties to Brij Bhushan, prompting protests that resulted in significant actions by prominent wrestlers.
#WATCH | Haryana: Congress MP Rahul Gandhi reaches Virender Arya Akhara in Chhara village of Jhajjar district and interacts with wrestlers including Bajrang Poonia. pic.twitter.com/j9ItihwVvP — ANI (@ANI) December 27, 2023
Sakshi Malik, in protest, declared her retirement from wrestling, while Bajrang Punia relinquished his Padma Shri award. Additionally, Vinesh Phogat announced her intention to return both her Khel Ratna and Arjuna Awards.
During his visit, Bajrang Punia shared that Rahul Gandhi actively participated in wrestling exercises with him, showcasing interest in understanding the daily routine and life of a wrestler. He mentioned that Gandhi even filmed a segment for his YouTube channel at the akhara.
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