Vinesh Phogat's Victory: A Setback for Congress Amidst Emerging Issues

Introduction

In the Haryana assembly elections, Congress viewed Vinesh Phogat's victory as a significant achievement. However, the underlying issues associated with her win have posed new challenges for the party. Securing a victory from the Julana seat by over 6,000 votes against BJP's Yogesh Bairagi, Vinesh's success has turned into a double-edged sword for Congress. Let’s explore how Vinesh's issues have backfired on the party.

1. Impact of the Farmer-Wrestler Movement

The farmer and wrestler movements have led to the polarization of anti-Jat votes in Haryana. The agitation against the atrocities faced by female wrestlers stirred negative sentiments among non-Jat communities. This perception made many feel that the Jat community would dominate if they came to power, resulting in a distancing from Congress.

2. Voting Dynamics in Julana

In Julana, Congress fielded Vinesh, while BJP had Captain Yogesh in the fray. Although Vinesh garnered support from the Jat community, she didn't achieve full backing. With about 70% of the 1.87 lakh voters being Jat, candidates from other parties also gained traction among the Jat voters, putting Congress’s strategy at risk.

3. Congress's Overconfidence

Vinesh's victory instilled excessive confidence within Congress. Instead of forming alliances with other parties, they opted to contest independently. Had they formed alliances, they could have potentially gained more seats.

4. The Political Stance of Female Wrestlers

Vinesh’s political engagement diluted her support. While the public backed her during the movement, her association with Congress raised suspicions about her motives. Her roadshow with Congress leader Deepender Hooda after returning from the Paris Olympics sparked controversy and distanced her from some former supporters.

5. Contradictory Statements from Vinesh

Vinesh’s inconsistent statements also became problematic. Initially claiming a lack of interest in politics, her subsequent comments during the campaign contradicted this. Such contradictions eroded public trust and turned Congress into a perceived villain in this narrative.

Conclusion

While Vinesh Phogat’s victory may have seemed like a win for Congress, the associated issues have jeopardized the party’s prospects. If Congress fails to adapt its strategies promptly, these emerging challenges could become significant hurdles in future elections.

Reference from:-https://www.aajtak.in/opinion-analysis-/story/vinesh-phogat-wins-from-julana-in-haryana-election-results-but-politics-over-wrestler-protest-defeated-congress-opns2-dskc-2065382-2024-10-08