New Delhi: Former Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat resigned from her position at Indian Railways on Friday, sparking speculation that she may be joining the Congress party. Citing personal reasons, Phogat’s resignation comes after her recent meeting with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, fueling rumors that she could contest the upcoming Haryana assembly elections.
In a post on X, Phogat shared a picture of her resignation letter, stating, “Serving Indian Railways has been a memorable and proud time of my life.” She had been working as an Officer on Special Duty (OSD) with Northern Railways.
“At this point in my life, I have decided to separate myself from the railway service and have submitted my resignation to the competent authorities of the Indian Railways,” Phogat said. While she didn’t explicitly mention her political intentions, her meeting with Rahul Gandhi has led to widespread speculation about her next move.
Phogat expressed gratitude to Indian Railways, saying, “I will always be grateful to the Indian Railway family for this opportunity given to me by the Railways in the service of the nation.”
Also Read | Egypt Rejects Russian Aircraft, Chooses American C-130J Super Hercules
Wrestling Career and Resignation
The 30-year-old athlete had quit wrestling after a controversial disqualification from the 50kg gold medal match at the Paris Olympics for being overweight by 100 grams. Despite appealing the decision, the Court of Arbitration for Sport rejected her appeal. Following this, Phogat shifted her focus away from wrestling and has now chosen to resign from her railway duties.
In her resignation letter addressed to the General Manager of Northern Railways, Phogat wrote, “Sir, keeping in view of my family circumstances/personal reasons, I am unable to perform my duties as OSD/sports. Therefore without any pressure, I wish to tender my resignation.”
Phogat requested that her resignation be accepted with immediate effect and mentioned that she would deposit one month’s salary in lieu of the notice period. “It is kindly requested that my resignation with immediate effect may be accepted from Northern Railway,” she added.
Also Read | Ukraine Urges West for Long-Range Missiles to Force Peace Talks with Russia
Political Speculation
While Phogat has not made any official announcement regarding her political ambitions, her resignation and recent interactions with Congress leadership have raised eyebrows. Many believe she is preparing to enter the political arena, possibly contesting in Haryana’s assembly elections next month.
