New Delhi: Wrestler Vinesh Phogat on Saturday attended a farmers’ event at the Shambhu border, where the protest, demanding a legal guarantee for the Minimum Support Price (MSP), marked its 200th day. Vinesh was honoured by the farmers during the day’s events.
The farmers have been protesting at the Shambhu border since 13 February after their march to Delhi was blocked by authorities.
Phogat praises farmers for their perseverance
Vinesh Phogat praised the farmers for their perseverance, saying that despite the lengthy duration of the protest, their energy and resolve remain undiminished. Expressing pride in her roots, Phogat shared that she is proud to have been born into a farmer’s family and assured the protesters of her support.
“I consider myself fortunate to have been born into a farming family. I want to assure you that your daughter stands with you. We must stand up for our rights because no one else will do it for us. I pray that your demands are met, and that you do not return home without securing your rights,” Phogat stated.
Urges govt to meet farmers’ demands
She also urged the government to meet the farmers’ demands. She expressed disappointment that their voices have gone unheard for such an extended period. “Farmers have been here for 200 days, standing up for their rights. I appeal to the government to address their demands. It is disheartening that they have not been listened to for 200 days. We have drawn great strength from witnessing their resolve,” she said.
Earlier on Friday, she visited the Golden Temple on Friday, where she prayed for “strength and courage, health for everyone, and the safety of the country”. She was accompanied by her family.
The August month has been tumultuous for Vinesh. She reached the final of the women’s 50kg event but returned without a medal after she was disqualified on the day of her bout for being overweight by 100gm.
