Olympic wrestler Vinesh Phogat joined the ongoing farmers’ protest at the Shambhu border between Punjab and Haryana on Saturday, urging the central government to listen to their demands and prioritize addressing their issues. The event, known as the ‘Kisan Mahapanchayat,’ was organized by the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha to mark 200 days of their ‘Delhi Chalo’ agitation, which demands a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP).
Phogat, who faced recent disqualification from the 50-kg final at the Paris Olympics, was honored by the protesting farmers for her support. In her address, she expressed solidarity with the farmers, emphasizing that their demands are justified. “I want to tell you that your daughter is with you,” Phogat stated, reflecting her commitment to their cause.
The wrestler, who represents India on the international stage, lamented the lack of progress in the farmers’ protest. She noted, “It hurts to see them. Sometimes we feel helpless at not being able to do anything for them. It is a request that the government should listen to them.”
Despite the ongoing protest, Phogat highlighted the farmers’ crucial role in feeding the nation and urged the government to reciprocate with empathy. “If the farmers do not feed us, how will we be able to compete? They have a big heart, and the government should also show a big heart,” she added.
When asked about Haryana’s upcoming assembly elections, Phogat admitted her lack of political knowledge but expressed willingness to support farmers in future agitations. “Farmers of the country are upset, and their problems need to be addressed. It should be the government’s priority to address their problems,” she said.
Phogat, from Haryana’s Balali, had previously been involved in protests against the Wrestling Federation of India chief over allegations of sexual harassment. Recently, she was honored with a gold medal by the Sarvkhap Panchayat in Haryana’s Rohtak.
