Kharge emphasized, "The issue of Vinesh Phogat is crucial... We need to understand who is behind this."
Digital Desk: MPs from the Opposition INDIA bloc staged a walkout from the Rajya Sabha on Thursday after being denied the opportunity to discuss the disqualification of wrestler Vinesh Phogat from the Paris Olympics. The walkout occurred amid heated scenes in the Rajya Sabha, where Chairperson Jagdeep Dhankhar reprimanded Trinamool Congress MP Derek O'Brien for his behavior.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge highlighted the importance of investigating who was responsible for Phogat's disqualification, which happened just hours before her 50kg freestyle gold medal match due to her being overweight by 100 grams. Phogat announced her retirement on the same day.
Kharge emphasized, "The issue of Vinesh Phogat is crucial... We need to understand who is behind this."
In response, Jagdeep Dhankhar stated that the entire nation shared in the pain of the situation and criticized attempts to politicize the matter. "They (the opposition) believe they are the only ones feeling the hurt. The entire nation, including the President, Prime Minister, and myself, shares this pain. Politicizing this issue is a profound disrespect to Phogat, who has a promising future ahead," he said.
Dhankhar also praised Haryana's immediate announcement of financial support for Phogat and recognition of her achievements, though this did not appease the opposition MPs, who continued to demand a discussion. Dhankhar harshly criticized TMC MP Derek O'Brien for shouting at the chair and warned him against undermining the dignity of the House.
"Your behavior is the most unacceptable in the House. I condemn your actions and will not hesitate to show you the door next time. You cannot shout at the desk," Dhankhar declared. He also admonished other MPs, including Jairam Ramesh, for their conduct, expressing disappointment at their behavior.
After the opposition's walkout, Congress MP Pramod Tiwari addressed reporters, stating, "INDIA bloc members walked out of the Rajya Sabha over the Vinesh Phogat issue. We wanted to discuss the circumstances surrounding her Olympics disqualification, but the government refused to engage."
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