Wrestling star turned Congress MLA Vinesh Phogat didn’t mince words on February 26 in Chandigarh, decrying the Haryana government’s indifference to sports. ‘Athletes are off the priority list now—it’s profoundly disappointing,’ she said, spotlighting the Governor’s speech that ignored the sector completely.
Delving into specifics, Phogat exposed operational breakdowns: ‘Sports are in dire straits. Thousands of coaching positions—nearly 1,000—are vacant. No new equipment has been bought, and info requests hit dead ends. Ministers’ roundabout answers won’t cut it; we demand fixes and tangible athlete support.’
She advocated a strategy of unyielding advocacy. ‘Keeping pressure on is crucial. We must drill home that sports development is their job—no excuses,’ Phogat urged.
This follows her pointed criticism of the Haryana Wrestling Association’s Federation Cup 2026 selection process. Labeling it unfair, she questioned the medal-only criterion from select 2025 events or globals, insisting it penalizes everyday grinders in the sport.
Phogat’s forthright stance resonates amid whispers of discontent in sports circles. By merging her wrestling legacy with legislative heft, she’s challenging status quo, pushing for a renaissance where athletes reclaim center stage in policy frameworks. The ball is now in the government’s court to respond meaningfully.