Haryana Cabinet Grants Cong MLA Vinesh Phogat Rewards Equivalent to Olympic Silver Medallist
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Synopsis
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini declared that the State Cabinet will grant wrestler-turned-politician Vinesh Phogat benefits equivalent to those of an Olympic Silver medallist. This decision comes after Phogat raised the matter in Vidhan Sabha, highlighting her importance as a representative and athlete.
Key Takeaways
- Haryana Cabinet recognizes Vinesh Phogat's achievements.
- Benefits equivalent to an Olympic Silver medallist offered.
- Phogat's case considered exceptional by the State Cabinet.
- Consultation with Phogat on preferred benefits.
- State sports policy outlines specific rewards.
Chandigarh, March 25 (NationPress) Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini announced on Tuesday that the State Cabinet has made a decision to provide wrestler-turned-politician Vinesh Phogat with benefits comparable to those of an Olympic Silver medallist as per the state's sports policy.
Phogat, representing the Congress party as an MLA from Julana in Jind district, recently brought this issue to the forefront in the Vidhan Sabha.
In light of the situation, the State Cabinet has regarded Phogat's case as exceptional and opted to extend the benefits outlined in the policy, according to an official statement.
Since Phogat holds an MLA position, the state government will consult her regarding her preferred benefits, it further stated.
The Chief Minister highlighted that the state's sports policy includes three types of rewards: a cash prize of Rs 4 crore, an Outstanding Sportsperson (OSP) job under Group 'A', and a plot from Haryana Shehri Vikas Pradhikaran (HSVP).
CM Saini noted that Phogat faced disqualification from the Paris Olympics due to a procedural issue.
In response to the events, the Chief Minister had previously tweeted that he would ensure that the honor of Haryana's pride, Vinesh Phogat, remains intact.
During the current budget session, Phogat reminded the Chief Minister of his commitment to honor her as a medallist after her disqualification due to being overweight ahead of the gold medal bout in the 50 kilogram category.
"The Chief Minister had stated that Vinesh is our daughter and she would be awarded as an Olympic silver medallist. This promise is yet to be fulfilled," she expressed in the Assembly.
"This is not merely about monetary compensation; it is about respect. Many individuals from across the state have urged me to ensure I receive the cash award," Phogat added.
In August 2024, the Haryana government resolved to honor Vinesh Phogat with medallist status, despite her disqualification from the Olympics for being overweight.
As confirmed by CM Saini, Phogat will receive rewards equivalent to those of an Olympic silver medallist, recognizing her historic accomplishment in reaching the final of the 50kg category, even though she did not compete in the final bout.
