In a major development for the Congress party, star wrestlers and renowned Olympians Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia joined the party during a press event at the AICC headquarters in Delhi. The heavyweight announcement was made in the presence of key Congress figures, who expressed their pride and enthusiasm in welcoming the athletes into their ranks. This move comes after the grapplers met with Congress senior leader Rahul Gandhi, sparking speculation of their entry into politics and potential contesting in the upcoming Haryana Assembly polls.
Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat Join Congress Party: A Major Political Shift
Background:
Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat are two of India's most decorated wrestlers. Punia, a three-time Commonwealth Games champion and Olympic bronze medalist, is known for his aggressive grappling style. Phogat, an Asian Games and Commonwealth Games gold medalist, has made history as the first Indian woman wrestler to win a medal at the Olympics.
Congress Party's Move:
On August 23, 2022, the Congress party announced that Punia and Phogat had joined the party. The announcement was made at a press event at the AICC headquarters in Delhi, attended by senior party leaders, including Rahul Gandhi.
This move is seen as a significant development for the Congress party, which has been struggling to gain momentum in recent elections. By bringing on board two high-profile athletes, the party is hoping to attract voters and boost its image as a supporter of sports and national pride.
Speculation about Assembly Polls:
There has been speculation that Punia and Phogat may contest in the upcoming Haryana Assembly polls. Haryana is the home state of both wrestlers, and they enjoy immense popularity there. However, no official announcement has been made regarding their political aspirations.
Top 5 FAQs:
They have not publicly stated their reasons, but it is speculated that they may have been attracted to the party's focus on youth empowerment and development, as well as its commitment to sports.
An official announcement has not been made, but the possibility remains open.
Their presence is expected to boost the party's image and attract voters, particularly in their home state of Haryana.
Neither Punia nor Phogat had any prior political experience before joining the Congress party.
While it can provide a platform for athletes to raise issues affecting the sports community, it also carries the risk of tarnishing their reputations if they become entangled in political controversies.
Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, along with his daughters, concluded his 11-day 'Prayaschit Deeksha' at the Tirumala temple in Tirupati on Wednesday. The deeksha was undertaken to seek forgiveness for the alleged use of animal fat in the famous Tirupati laddu. Kalyan will be unveiling a declaration at a public meeting in Tirupati on Thursday before offering meals to devotees in the Anna Prasadam complex and discussing the matter with TTD officials. He had started the deeksha on foot from Alipiri on Tuesday and launched it on September 22 at a temple in Nambur, Guntur district. The leader stated that the laddu, revered by millions, had been defiled due to the actions of the previous ruler and that seeking forgiveness was necessary for cleansing the sins.
Amid heated debate over a controversial bill that aims to redefine the relationship between the government and Indigenous Maori, the country's parliament was thrown into chaos on Thursday as two lawmakers were ejected and a vote was suspended. The bill, which would specify that Indigenous rights should apply to all New Zealanders, has drawn fervent opposition and sparked protests throughout the country. Despite its unpopularity, the bill passed its first vote due to the political influence of a minor party and reflects a longstanding tension and disagreement over the interpretation and implementation of the 1840 Treaty of Waitangi.
As India prepares to celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti, a bank holiday has been announced in various states in honor of the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism. Congress Leader Rahul Gandhi also took to social media to pay his respects and share his thoughts on the significance of Guru Nanak's teachings of unity and service. He also wished everyone a happy Guru Purnima, commemorating the day with a traditional greeting and message of goodwill.
The Central Selection Board of Constable (CSBC) has released the results for Bihar Police Constable recruitment exam, which was conducted on various dates in August across the state. The Board initially scheduled the exam for October 2023 but had to cancel it after the first day due to issues. A total of 21391 constable positions will be filled through this recruitment drive.
Tulsi Gabbard, a former US Army member and trained in martial arts, has been appointed as the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) by President-elect Donald Trump. A video of her firing guns and pistols and going through a military training course has surfaced, impressing netizens with her skills and determination. Some even believe she has what it takes to become the first female US president.
President-elect Trump has chosen Fox News host Pete Hegseth as his nominee for U.S. Secretary of Defense. The controversial pick deviates from the traditional mold for government service as Hegseth lacks senior military or national security experience. While he is best known for his eight years as a commentator and host on Fox News, Hegseth also has a background as an Army Combat Veteran and has led veteran's advocacy groups.
The Ministry of Home Affairs has extended the "Disturbed Areas" status to the jurisdictions of six police stations in Manipur's valley region, following recent incidents of violence. This move comes after months of ethnic conflict in the state, with the MHA citing ongoing sporadic violence in certain areas. While the AFSPA grants armed forces personnel the authority to use force against individuals violating the law, it also requires Central Government approval for prosecution, raising concerns about potential misuse of power.
On the birth anniversary of India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, political leaders across the country paid their respects and remembered his contributions to the nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Leader of Opposition Gandhi, and Congress President Kharge all shared heartfelt messages honoring Nehru's values and ideals, which continue to guide India towards progress and inclusivity. Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also highlighted Nehru's unwavering commitment to fearlessness and selfless service in nation-building and urged the public to not be swayed by those who spread fear.
President-elect Donald Trump has chosen Fox News host and former army veteran Pete Hegseth as his nominee for the Defense Secretary role. Critics are raising concerns about his lack of experience and right-wing views, while supporters applaud him for his strong advocacy for military members and pardons for U.S. military service members facing war crime charges. Despite some surprise and hesitancy from Republican senators, former Rep. Jason Chaffetz believes Hegseth's nomination will easily be confirmed.
Senator John Thune of South Dakota has been elected as the new majority leader for Senate Republicans, replacing Mitch McConnell. Thune, who has promised to collaborate closely with President-elect Donald Trump, won the internal election against competitors John Cornyn and Rick Scott. As the GOP prepares to take majority control of the Senate, Thune will have the challenging task of managing a divided conference, navigating Trump's demands, and securing policy wins for the new administration.