Chandigarh: Ahead of the 2024 Haryana Assembly elections, wrestling stars Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia have joined the Congress party, a move that many consider a significant blow to the ruling BJP. The decision has generated a buzz from the streets to social media, with supporters and critics debating its impact on the political landscape.
However, when asked about the development, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini offered a measured yet pointed response. In an interview with Aaj Tak, Saini praised both wrestlers, calling them the “diamonds of Haryana” and “the pride of the country” for their contributions to India’s sports. Yet, he didn’t hold back in criticising the Congress, accusing the party of playing politics with the athletes’ achievements.
“It is unfortunate that the Congress is using these talented sportspeople for their political gains,” Saini remarked. He further pointed out that Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda, who has recently voiced support for the wrestlers, had ample opportunity during his tenure to honour them but failed to act. “When these players won medals, their government was in power. Why did they not do anything then?” Saini questioned.
The Chief Minister also accused the Congress of politicising every decision taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government. “Be it the CAA or the farmers’ agitation, Congress finds a way to criticise,” Saini said. He called on Congress to acknowledge the positive steps taken by the current government and move beyond political posturing.
Saini also highlighted the BJP’s efforts to create opportunities for youth in the state, suggesting that under the Congress regime, jobs were often obtained through political connections. “Young people now realise that in the BJP government, they will earn jobs through merit, not through favours,” he added.
With the Haryana Assembly elections fast approaching, CM Saini confidently predicted another term for the BJP, asserting that the “double engine government” under Prime Minister Modi and his leadership would continue to steer both the state and the country towards progress.
He emphasised the achievements of his government and its commitment to development, positioning the BJP as the party capable of securing Haryana’s future. “We are confident of forming the government for the third time in a row,” he told ANI.
As the political arena heats up with new entrants and old rivalries, the upcoming Haryana elections promise to be a closely watched battle, with all eyes on how the entry of prominent sports figures will impact the outcome.
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