Prime Minister Narendra Modi reacted to the disqualification of star Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat from Paris 2024 Olympics, saying the upset hurts and that he had no words to express the sense of despair that he was going through.
Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the 50 kg wrestling event because of being overweight by just 100 gm on August 7,barely hours before her final bout at the Paris Olympics 2024 pursing a gold medal.
As a consequence of Phogat’s disqualification, she will not be eligible for any medal. According to the rules of the Olympics, she will now be placed at the last position in the women’s 50 kg freestyle wrestling category.
The Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to the Indian Olympics Association (IOA) president
PT Usha about the wrestler’s case and the range of options ahead of her at the Games.
Earlier, the IOA released its official statement, saying:
“It is with regret that the Indian contingent shares news of the disqualification of Vinesh Phogat from the Women’s Wrestling 50kg class. Despite the best efforts by the team through the night, she weighed in a few grams over 50kg this morning. No further comments will be made by the contingent at this time. The Indian team requests you respect Vinesh’s privacy.
It would like to focus on the competitions on hand.”
PM Modi on X
“Vinesh, you are a champion among champions!
You are India’s pride and an inspiration for each and every Indian.
Today’s setback hurts. I wish words could express the sense of despair that I am experiencing.
At the same time, I know that you epitomise resilience. It has always been your nature to take challenges head-on.
Come back stronger! We are all rooting for you,”