Vinesh Phogat, one of India’s celebrated wrestlers, has taken a significant step in her career by transitioning from sports to politics. After her disheartening experience at the Paris Olympics, where she faced disqualification, Phogat returned home and joined the Congress party, marking her political debut. She has filed her nomination for the upcoming Haryana Legislative Assembly elections and will contest from the Julana constituency in Jind.
In her affidavit submitted along with her nomination papers, the multiple Commonwealth Games gold medallist disclosed her income, assets, and liabilities. Among her possessions, Phogat revealed that she owns three cars: a Volvo XC 60 valued at ₹35 lakh, a Hyundai Creta worth ₹12 lakh, and a Toyota Innova priced at ₹17 lakh.

She is currently repaying a loan of ₹13 lakh taken to purchase the Innova. Her husband, Somvir Rathee, also owns a vehicle—a Mahindra Scorpio valued at ₹19 lakh.
Phogat’s affidavit also highlighted her immovable assets, which include a plot in Sonipat, valued at ₹2 crore. In addition to her assets, Phogat reported an income of ₹13,85,000 in her most recent income tax return, showing her financial standing as she steps into the political arena. She also has ₹1,95,000 cash in hand.
Vinesh Phogat’s decision to enter politics follows her unfortunate disqualification from the Paris Olympics. Despite reaching the final in the women’s freestyle 50kg event, Phogat was eliminated due to being 100 grams overweight during her second weigh-in.
This disqualification came as a major blow, leading to her filing an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport, seeking a joint silver medal. However, her appeal was dismissed, further deepening her frustrations.
In a recent interview, Phogat expressed her disappointment with the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), claiming that she received little support during her time in Paris. She also criticized IOA President PT Usha, accusing her of using Phogat’s name for publicity. Phogat alleged that Usha took a photograph with her at the hospital without informing her and posted it on social media as a false show of solidarity. She also accused Usha of playing politics instead of supporting her during the Paris Olympics.
As she embarks on her new journey in politics, Vinesh Phogat’s fight continues, but this time in the political sphere.