Vinesh Phogat Returns Khel Ratna and Arjuna Awards: Assigned Duty Outside PMO Amidst Controversy

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat Conferred with Khel Ratna and Arjuna Awards

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat was honored with the prestigious Khel Ratna and Arjuna Awards, which were conferred upon her in a ceremony held in Delhi at the Prime Minister’s Office on Saturday, December 30.

Vinesh Phogat faced a brief interruption from the police before she proceeded to the venue. After receiving the awards, she touched the ground in a gesture of gratitude and respect, highlighting her commitment to duty. Before the ceremony, Vinesh had written two letters to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing her concerns about the lack of justice for women wrestlers.

Upon receiving the awards, Vinesh expressed that she is here for justice and will continue to fight until justice is served. Earlier, she had posted a video on social media with fellow wrestler Bajrang Punia, emphasizing the challenges faced by female wrestlers in India.

Vinesh Phogat had previously been awarded the Padma Shri, and her achievements in wrestling have made her a prominent figure in the sport. The wrestling community in India has been vocal about issues related to the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), and Sanjay Singh, an executive member of the WFI, resigned from his position on the same day as a form of protest.

These events have sparked controversy and led to the suspension of Sanjay Singh by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). Additionally, an ad-hoc committee has been formed to oversee the operations of the WFI, with Bhupender Bajwa appointed as its president. The committee includes members such as M.M. Somaya, and Manjusha Kanwar.