Boxer Vijender Singh joins BJP, quits Congress party ahead of Lok Sabha Elections 2024; users on Twitter stunned with his U-turn

Vijender Singh, India's first Olympic boxing medalist and a Congress party member, officially joined the BJP on Wednesday (April 3) ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections.

The move might surprise many of his supporters as the boxer had only yesterday reposted senior Congress party leader Rahul Gandhi's post on X, criticising the ruling party at the centre.

Singh (38) won a bronze medal in boxing at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and kickstarted a revolution in the sport. The Padma Shri and Arjuna Awardee boxer had previously contested in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections representing the Congress party in the South Delhi constituency, albeit unsuccessfully.

Recently, there was speculation regarding his potential candidacy as the Congress nominee from Mathura, where the incumbent MP Hema Malini is seeking re-election.

Hailing from the influential Jat community, which holds significant political sway in regions spanning Haryana, his home state, as well as western Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, Singh's move to the BJP carries weight in these areas.

"I have decided to join the BJP today, having previously contested under the Congress banner in the 2019 General Elections. My primary motivation is to contribute positively towards the betterment of our nation," stated Singh.

Regarding his stance on supporting the wrestlers' protest, where top grapplers in the country have been protesting against the BJP and its incumbent MP Brijbhushan Sharan Singh, Singh affirmed his commitment to forthrightness, asserting, "I have consistently advocated for honesty and transparency, and my perspective remains unchanged. Upon joining the BJP, I remain dedicated to advancing the welfare of athletes."

Stunned by his decision to change a political party in the election season, several users questioned the pugilist's sudden U-turn.

Another user posted a screenshot of his X handle, formerly known as Twitter, where he reposted Rahul Gandhi's post.

Another user shared an old video of Vijender where the former Congress leader took veiled digs at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and explained the difference between Modi and his predecessor Dr Manmohan Singh.

More to follow...