Phogat, who has represented India on numerous international stages, is well-known for her achievements in wrestling, including medals in the Commonwealth and Asian Games. Her shift from the wrestling mat to the political platform comes at a time when the Congress party is aiming to strengthen its position in the politically crucial state of Haryana, a region historically dominated by heavyweight politicians. The decision to field Phogat from Julana is seen as a calculated move to attract youth and sports enthusiasts, especially in a state with a deep wrestling tradition.
While Phogat’s entry into politics was long speculated, her nomination for the Julana seat has now been confirmed. The Julana constituency, located in the Jind district of Haryana, has seen a competitive political landscape, with local issues ranging from agricultural concerns to employment opportunities dominating the campaign discourse. Phogat’s association with the Congress party is expected to give her significant leverage among voters, particularly the rural and youth demographics that have admired her for her sporting achievements.
Her foray into politics is not without its challenges, though. Julana has been a battleground for various political parties, with local dynamics often shifting based on caste allegiances and economic issues. Despite her prominence, Phogat will need to navigate the complexities of local politics, where long-standing loyalties and grassroots campaigning often outweigh personal popularity. However, with her background in wrestling, which is deeply respected in the region, Phogat stands to benefit from the goodwill of Haryana’s sporting community.
Phogat’s political ambitions come at a time when the Congress party is rebuilding its presence in Haryana, a state that has historically swung between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and regional players like the Jannayak Janta Party (JJP). The Congress, led by key figures in the state, has been working to regain its foothold after facing electoral setbacks in previous elections. Phogat's candidacy, which brings both celebrity status and a narrative of hard work and dedication, aligns with the party’s strategy to revitalize its image in the state.
Bajrang Punia, another acclaimed wrestler who joined the Congress alongside Phogat, was notably absent from the candidate list. Despite speculation that he too would receive a ticket to contest the elections, the Congress has decided not to field Punia as a candidate this time. The decision has raised some eyebrows, particularly among Punia’s supporters, who had anticipated his entry into politics would be as prominent as Phogat’s. Punia, a vocal figure in India’s sports community, has not commented on the matter, and it remains unclear whether he will play a different role in the party's campaign or contest in future elections.
Punia’s omission from the candidate list does not diminish his significance in the party. Analysts believe that his role in the Congress campaign will still be influential, even if it does not involve running for office in the upcoming election. His presence at rallies and public events could boost the party's appeal, especially among young voters who look up to him as a national sports hero. Phogat and Punia’s involvement in politics is seen as part of a larger trend of athletes in India transitioning into public service, using their popularity and public trust to influence political change.
The Congress party's decision to prioritize Phogat for the Julana seat underscores its focus on assembling a diverse slate of candidates. Haryana’s political landscape has long been characterized by a mix of dynastic politics and grassroots leaders. With Phogat’s candidacy, the Congress appears to be tapping into a different type of leadership—one that combines national recognition with a focus on hard work and discipline, values that resonate deeply with the state's electorate.
Phogat’s journey from wrestling to politics is expected to energize the Congress campaign in Haryana. Her sporting achievements have made her a household name, and her entry into politics brings a fresh face to the party’s efforts in the state. Political observers will be closely watching her campaign, particularly how she adapts to the demands of electoral politics, which require a different kind of strategy and resilience compared to the world of sports.
Meanwhile, the Congress party continues its efforts to finalize other candidates for the Haryana Assembly elections. The party has been seeking to balance its ticket distribution between experienced politicians and newcomers like Phogat, aiming to present a diverse and inclusive candidate list to the voters. As the election season intensifies, Phogat’s performance as a candidate will likely serve as a bellwether for the broader success of the Congress in the state.