Vinesh Phogat Disqualified: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday hailed wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who has been disqualified from Paris Olympics 2024 by the authorities on the grounds of the 'weight' category, saying that she is India's pride and an inspiration for each and every Indian.
This comes as Phogat, who was all set to compete in the women's 50 kg final, was disqualified as she was reportedly recorded as 'overweight' by 100 grams.
PM Modi took to X and said, "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."
With Vinesh Phogat's disqualification, India's hopes for a Gold Medal on August 7 have been shattered and it is indeed, a true heartbreak for the nation.
The grappler had scripted history by becoming the first Indian woman wrestler to reach the gold medal bout in the event on Tuesday night.
PM Modi Speaks To IOA President PT Usha
PM Modi spoke to IOA President PT Usha and sought first hand information from PT Usha on the issue and the options India has in the wake of Vinesh's setback. He asked her to explore the full range of options to help Vinesh’s case. He also urged PT Usha to file a strong protest regarding her disqualification if that helps Vinesh, news agency PTI reported, citing sources.
Phogat Was Found Overweight: Indian Coach
Before this morning, she was assured of at least a silver medal but will now be coming back empty-handed due to the disqualification. "She was found overweight by 100gm this morning. The rules do not allow this and she has been disqualified," said an Indian coach, as quoted by news agency PTI.
The Indian Olympic Association later confirmed the development and requested privacy for the wrestler, who was competing in her third Olympics. "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," the IOA stated.
"No further comments will be made by the contingent at this time. The Indian team requests you to respect Vinesh's privacy. It would like to focus on the competitions on hand," it added.
What Do International Rules Say?
International rules stipulate that any grappler found overweight at the time of weigh-in ends up at the bottom of the final standings. Hers was not the only weight-related disqualification in the 50kg category.
Vinesh Phogat's Disqualification Issue Reaches Parliament
Opposition MPs raised the issue of Phogat's disqualification from Paris Olympics 2024 in the Lok Sabha. Speaking on the matter, Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal said, "Union Sports Minister will give a statement on this matter at 3 pm today."
The 29-year-old had taken down defending champion Yui Susaki of Japan en route the finals on Tuesday in a remarkable performance and was to face American Sarah Ann Hildebrandt in the summit bout this evening.