Decorated wrestler Vinesh Phogat on Sunday (May 3, 2026) warned that the Indian government would be responsible if anything untoward happens to her or her team members during the upcoming National Open Ranking Tournament in Gonda, while also raising apprehensions about "biased officiating" in her comeback event.
In a video message ahead of her comeback after nearly 18 months, Ms. Phogat alleged that the competition, slated to be held at a venue linked to Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, could see results influenced by individuals close to the former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief.
Vinesh Phogat and feminism in Haryana
"If any untoward incident happens to me, my team or supporters during the competition, the Indian government will be responsible," Vinesh reiterated, while urging media and the sporting community to be present at the venue to ensure transparency.
— Vinesh Phogat (@Phogat_Vinesh) May 3, 2026
