In a heated exchange, BJP leader and former wrestler Babita Phogat has launched a strong criticism against fellow Olympian Sakshi Malik, accusing her of compromising her integrity to promote her new book, Witness. Phogat’s comments were in response to Malik’s claims that Babita, along with other wrestlers, organized protests against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) with a hidden agenda to assume leadership roles, such as becoming WFI President.

Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Babita Phogat wrote, “Shine with your own character. How long will borrowed light last? Some got assembly seats, some got posts, sister, and you did not get anything, I can understand your pain. In order to sell the book, she sold her integrity.”

Background of the Dispute

The dispute between the wrestlers has its roots in the protests that took place earlier this year, when top athletes including Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia, and Sakshi Malik accused WFI leadership of misconduct and abuse. Malik’s recent comments in her book accuse some individuals close to Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia of being driven by personal ambition, suggesting that their involvement in the protests was not entirely motivated by justice for the wrestlers.

Reactions from Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia

In response to Malik’s allegations, newly elected Congress MLA from Julana, Vinesh Phogat, said her only objective was to seek justice for female wrestlers who had allegedly suffered abuse. Phogat, along with Bajrang Punia, joined the Congress ahead of the Haryana Assembly elections. Vinesh Phogat won the Julana seat, defeating BJP’s Yogesh Kumar by a margin of 5,761 votes.

When asked about Malik’s comments, Bajrang Punia took a more neutral stance, stating that it was Malik’s personal opinion and that their friendship remained intact. He remarked, “She was our friend, and she will continue to be so. I can’t say anything about what she has said.”

Political Implications

The disagreement between these prominent figures has taken on political dimensions, with Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia aligning themselves with the Congress party, while Babita Phogat remains a key figure in the BJP. Babita’s latest remarks appear to be part of the larger political tussle as both sides vie for influence in the sporting and political spheres.

This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between the wrestlers, with political affiliations and personal accusations adding complexity to their once united front in fighting for justice within the sporting community.

The story is developing, with further reactions expected from political and sporting figures.