Indian wrestler
Vinesh Phogat
‘s
disqualification
from the Paris Olympics 2024 has sparked outrage and disappointment across the country. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) confirmed that Phogat failed to make weight for the women’s 50kg freestyle final, where she was set to compete against Sarah Hildebrandt of the United States.
“It is with regret that the Indian contingent shares news of the disqualification of Vinesh Phogat from the women’s wrestling 50kg class,” the IOA stated.
“Despite the best efforts by the team through the night, she weighed in a few grams over 50kg this morning.”
The disqualification has left fans and the sports community in shock. Several Bollywood has also reacted strongly to the news, with several celebrities expressing their support for Phogat. However, actress and BJP MP
Hema Malini
has found herself at the centre of controversy following her comments on the matter.
“It is very surprising, and it feels strange that she was disqualified for being 100 gm overweight. It is important to keep the weight in check. It is a lesson for all of us. I wish she could lose that 100 gm quickly, but she won’t get it now,” Hema Malini said in a statement to PTI outside parliament. The actress also appeared to smile at the camera before walking away.
Malini’s remarks have triggered a wave of criticism on social media, with many calling her comments insensitive and disgraceful. “Look at her smiling face while making such disgraceful remarks,” tweeted one user. Another wrote, “Trust Hema Malini to say the most ludicrous and random things at all times….”
“She is laughing at the agony of a worthy champion,” said another.
See all the reactions that came in below:
Phogat has been admitted to the Games Village polyclinic due to dehydration. Vinesh became the first Indian woman wrestler to reach the final of an Olympic Games after she defeated Cuba’s Yusneylys Guzman 5-0 in the semifinal on Tuesday night. After her semifinal win, Vinesh did everything possible to meet the weight category criteria, including jogging, skipping, and cycling.
Kangana Ranaut Reacts to Vinesh Phogat’s Olympics 2024 Performance
