Vinesh Phogat Accepted ₹4 Crore but Also Sought Land; Haryana Minister Responds, “Keep Politics Out of Sports, Government Fulfilled its Promise.”
Vinesh Phogat News (2025): Olympic wrestler and Congress leader Vinesh Phogat’s ₹4 crore award from the Haryana government may not have been enough. She was offered three options—a cash reward, a government job, or a government land allotment. Vinesh accepted the ₹4 crore but also desired government land.
The government’s scheme allows athletes to choose only one option. Responding to this demand, Haryana’s Public Works Minister, Ranbir Gangwa, stated, "Vinesh should not bring politics into sports. Despite her disqualification at the Olympics, the government showed her full respect."
CM Nayab Saini Kept His Promise
According to Minister Ranbir Gangwa, the honor bestowed upon Vinesh was due to Chief Minister Nayab Saini’s personal commitment. He explained that Vinesh's selection wasn't based on regulations, but fulfilled the Chief Minister's word. He also mentioned that a special cabinet meeting in Haryana approved this decision.
Haryana's Sports Policy Hailed as World's Best
The minister also asserted that Haryana's sports policy has enabled the state's athletes to make their mark internationally. Over half of India's Olympic medals have been won by Haryana's athletes. The government's infrastructure facilities and athlete welfare schemes play a significant role in supporting athletes' progress.
A Jibe at Congress
Ranbir Gangwa also targeted the Congress party in the political arena. He stated, "The Congress party is no longer an organization but a crowd divided into factions. There is no internal unity; therefore, even the Leader of the Opposition hasn't been decided yet. Consequently, the opposition questioning government decisions has also weakened."
