Understanding the Backlash Against Babita Phogat's Comments

Image Source: Hindustan Times

Vinesh Phogat, three-time Commonwealth Games champion, received overwhelming support as she spoke out against her cousin, former wrestler and BJP leader Babita Phogat, who advised wrestlers to stay away from sharing a stage with political leaders. Babita had tweeted criticism of Priyanka Vadra for accompanying her secretary, who was accused of women harassment, to support protesting women wrestlers at Jantar Mantar. In response, Vinesh urged Babita to stand with protesting women wrestlers and not weaken their cause, stating that it took years to speak out against abusers and that as a woman, Babita should understand their pain.

The Phogat Khap head, Balwant Nambardar, also criticized Babita, accusing her of weakening the wrestlers’ protest by misguiding them and speaking against farmers during the farm agitation. Geeta Phogat, Babita’s sister, called for support of women wrestlers fighting for justice, emphasizing the issue’s significance in deciding the future of many budding women grapplers.

As the wrestlers prepare for a long-haul protest, the families of Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, and Bajrang Punia have purchased equipment to support the protesters, including sound systems, mattresses, and fans. Wrestler and Vinesh’s husband Somvir Rathee reported that expenses were crossing ₹1 lakh per day, with the entire cost being borne by the wrestlers. Sushil Gupta, Aam Aadmi Party Haryana affairs in-charge and Rajya Sabha MP, pledged voluntary support to the protesters, offering water, toilets, bathrooms, tents, and food.

As women wrestlers call for solidarity, Babita’s divisive comments have come under scrutiny, highlighting the need for support and advocacy for women in sports.

Re-reported from the story originally published by Hindustan Times