Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat ousted from Paris Olympics

Her overweight was cited to be the reason

Her relatives have suspected the motive behind it

The disqualification of Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat from the Paris Olympics has taken a contentious turn, with her family alleging a conspiracy orchestrated by the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), coaches, and support staff. Phogat was disqualified for being overweight ahead of her women’s 50 kg freestyle final, a decision that has sparked widespread debate and controversy.

Also Read: Vinesh Phogat dehydration underlines emotional toil sportspeople undergo

Vinesh’s relative, Rajpal Rathi, spoke to the media, claiming that her disqualification was a deliberate act by individuals in powerful positions. “This is clearly a conspiracy done by people sitting at the top,” Rathi stated. His remarks have further intensified the controversy surrounding Phogat’s disqualification, which came just hours before her historic gold medal bout.

For context, Vinesh Phogat had previously staged a protest against Brij Bhushan Singh over allegations of sexual harassment of players. The family’s allegations suggest that her disqualification might be retribution for her outspoken stance.

Phogat had become the first Indian woman wrestler to reach the gold medal bout, making her disqualification all the more devastating. Adding to the distress, she has reportedly been hospitalised in Paris due to dehydration.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his support for Phogat in a tweet, saying, “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.”