Bhupinder Singh Hooda Urges Sports Minister to Support Vinesh Phogat's Participation

Former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda has urged Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya to take action regarding the Wrestling Federation of India's decision to bar Vinesh Phogat from competing in the National Open Ranking Tournament. Hooda emphasized the importance of supporting athletes like Phogat, who have brought honor to the nation. He called for the central government and sports bodies to ensure her dignity is upheld and to allow her participation in future competitions. This appeal highlights the ongoing scrutiny of the WFI's operations and the need for fair treatment of athletes.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 13, 2026, 02:23 IST

Call for Action on Vinesh Phogat's Exclusion

On Tuesday, Bhupinder Singh Hooda, the former Chief Minister of Haryana and current Leader of the Opposition, reached out to Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, requesting immediate action regarding the Wrestling Federation of India's (WFI) decision to prevent Vinesh Phogat from competing in the National Open Ranking Tournament held in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh.

Hooda expressed that the claims made by the Olympian are of significant concern.

“Vinesh Phogat has consistently brought pride to our nation. Therefore, it is crucial for the central government and relevant sports organizations to ensure her dignity remains intact,” he stated.

He emphasized that if Vinesh intends to compete in events like the Asian Games or other international competitions based on her skills, she should be granted that opportunity. However, in Gonda, she was denied entry to both the competition and the training facilities.

Hooda pointed out that the operations of the WFI have often faced criticism.

“It is essential for the Union Sports Minister to take note of this situation and intervene to guarantee that no athlete is denied their rightful opportunities,” he added.

“In our nation, only a few athletes reach the Olympic level and have the potential to secure medals. Vinesh is one of those wrestlers. During the Paris Olympics, she was in a position to win gold, but unfortunately, circumstances did not favor her at the last moment. Despite her victories, she ended up without a medal,” he remarked.

Hooda stressed that if Vinesh is determined to return to the sport through hard work and aims to earn medals for India, sports authorities should fully support her instead of subjecting her to unfair treatment.