Published 00:03 IST, September 7th 2024
Any BJP Candidate Will Defeat Phogat, Punia In Haryana: Brij Bhushan Singh
Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh criticized wrestlers' political ambitions, alleging Congress conspiracies and offering to campaign for BJP in Haryana.
Former BJP MP and ex-WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh on Friday sought to downplay wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia's entry into politics. Singh claimed that any BJP candidate would defeat them if they contested in Haryana and expressed willingness to campaign in the upcoming assembly elections if his party permits.
Singh's Remarks on Wrestlers' Political Ambitions
Talking to journalists at his residence Vishnoharpur, Singh commented, "These wrestlers made a name in the sport and became famous on the strength of wrestling. Now after joining Congress , their name will be erased." Singh further stated that Phogat and Punia's political ambitions were unrealistic and suggested that they would be defeated by a small BJP candidate.
Singh's Offer to Campaign for BJP
Singh indicated that he would campaign for the BJP candidate in Haryana if directed by his party. He claimed that he would receive significant support from the community and was ready to campaign even against Phogat and Punia directly.
Singh's Criticism of Congress and the Wrestlers' Protests
Singh accused Congress of using wrestlers as pawns and alleged that the Congress-led protests had damaged the sport of wrestling in India. He claimed that wrestling gained prominence in the country due to his efforts as the WFI president and criticized the Congress for supposedly working against wrestling events.
Historical Context and Allegations of Conspiracy
Singh reiterated his belief that the protests against him were part of a Congress conspiracy. He compared the current allegations to a 1996 incident when he was arrested under TADA and alleged that similar conspiracies have targeted him throughout his career. Singh also referenced his family members' political careers as part of his defense against the current allegations.
Public Perception and Personal Reflections
Singh noted that his public image had changed significantly after the recent controversies, with people, including celebrities and sages, now showing interest in him.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Republic staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
Updated 00:03 IST, September 7th 2024