In a significant show of solidarity, renowned Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat joined the farmers’ protest at the Shambhu border, marking their 200th day of demonstrations. Phogat, who recently announced her retirement following a controversial decision to deny her medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics, expressed her unwavering support for the farmers’ cause.
The farmers have been stationed at the Shambhu border since February 13th, enduring resistance from authorities that previously prevented their march into Delhi. Their primary demands include the implementation of a Minimum Support Price (MSP) for all crops, alongside other crucial issues.
During the massive gathering, Phogat delivered a heartfelt speech in support of the farmers. She emphasized their determination and resilience, saying, “Aaj 200 din pure ho gaye hain aapke aandolan ko aur main parmatma se yehi dua karungi ki aap jo apne hak ke liye aaye hain, insaaf ke liye aaye hain, woh aapko mile. Woh leke hee jaana hai, apna honsla nahin todna hai. Aapki beti aapke saath mein khadi hai. Main Sarkar se bhi guzaarish karti hoon ki hum bhi desh ke vaasi hain, agar hum koi awaaz uthaate hain, yeh political nahin hota. Har baar usko alag jaati dharm se nahin joda jaana chahiye. Hame baithke bolne ka hak toh milna hee chahiye.”
(“I am lucky that I was born in a farmer’s family. I want to tell you that your daughter is with you. We have to stand for our rights because nobody else will come for us. I pray to God that your demands are met and don’t return back without taking your rights. Farmers are sitting here for 200 days for their rights. I appeal to the government to fulfil their demands. It is very sad that they have not been listened since 200 days. We got a lot of strength by seeing them.”)
Phogat also appealed to the government, stating, “I also request the government because we are the citizens of this country and the agenda for raising our voice is not always political. There is no point in linking these matters to religion. We should get the right to speak what we want to. What the farmers are asking for is not illegitimate. I know how our parents have raised us. I request the government to listen to the farmers and pray to god that they give you the strength to raise your voice against the wrong happenings.”
Following her participation in the protest, Phogat was warmly welcomed back to her hometown, where she was honored with a medal. Reflecting on her future, she shared her thoughts with ANI: “I am feeling good; my people are standing with me… Nothing is bigger than that. Who knows about the future? I don’t know what I will do. I am here today among my people; this is my medal… I am happy.”