'Jahan Jaaegi Satyanaash': Brij Bhushan Reacts to Vinesh Phogat's Win in Haryana

Despite predictions to the contrary, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) finds itself ahead in 50 constituencies across Haryana, indicating a likely continuation of its governance in the state for a third consecutive term. This development comes amidst various political controversies and public protests that sought to challenge the party's stronghold.

In a recent statement, former BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh criticized Congress leader Vinesh Phogat, who secured a win in the Haryana assembly elections. Singh, who faces allegations of sexual harassment by female wrestlers, accused Phogat of causing harm wherever she goes. His comments not only reflect personal animosity but also underscore the intense rivalry between the two major political parties in the region. He asserted, "Wo jahan jahan jaegi, satyanaash hi hoga (she will spread destruction wherever she goes)."

Singh attempted to downplay the impact of the wrestlers' protest against him on the BJP's electoral performance. He highlighted the success of BJP candidates in regions with a significant 'Jat' population, dismissing the wrestlers involved in the protest as not being true representatives of Haryana's aspirations. Singh's remarks suggest a dismissal of the protest's significance and an attempt to claim a moral victory for the BJP, "Many BJP candidates have won on 'jat' majority seats... The so-called wrestlers in the wrestler's agitation are not heroes of Haryana. They are villains for all the junior wrestlers also... If she (Vinesh Phogat) used my name to win, it means I am a great man who helped her win. She won but Congress lost..."

Singh also took the opportunity to commend the party's triumph, attributing it to the electorate's approval of the BJP's policies. He expressed gratitude towards the people of Haryana for not being swayed by the protests that had sought to challenge the party's governance, including those by farmers and wrestlers. His statement pointed out the party's resilience against opposition tactics, "I would like to thank the people of Haryana. Many efforts were made to mislead the people of Haryana in the name of protests of farmers and wrestlers. However, people have praised the policies of BJP."

On the other side of the political spectrum, Vinesh Phogat's victory in the Julana constituency has been portrayed as a beacon of hope and struggle. Phogat, transitioning from a reputed wrestling background to the political arena, dedicated her win to the broader fight for women's rights and dignity. Her statement post-victory encapsulates this sentiment, "This is the fight of every girl, every woman who chooses the path to fight. This is the victory of every struggle, truth. I will maintain the love and trust that this country has given me."

The contrasting perspectives between Singh and Phogat highlight the deeply entrenched political divisions within Haryana. While the BJP celebrates its potential third term, the narratives surrounding individual candidates like Phogat suggest a broader discourse on governance, representation, and the role of women in politics.