Tue Oct 08 12:31:05 UTC 2024: ## Olympian Vinesh Phogat Wins Julana Assembly Seat in Haryana
**Julana, Haryana:** In a major upset, Olympic wrestler Vinesh Phogat has won the Julana Assembly seat in the Haryana Legislative Assembly elections. Phogat, who contested as a Congress candidate, defeated BJP’s Yogesh Bairagi by a margin of over 6,000 votes.
The election results were announced on October 8th after a close contest that saw the lead change hands several times during the counting process. Phogat, who trailed initially, took the lead in the seventh round and held it till the end.
This victory marks a significant comeback for Phogat, who had faced disappointment at the 2024 Paris Olympics. She had been a strong contender for a gold medal but was disqualified for being over the weight limit.
“I am grateful for the people of Julana’s trust in me,” said Phogat in her victory speech. “This victory is not just mine, but for everyone who believes in fair play and fighting for what’s right.”
Phogat’s entry into politics came after she participated in protests against the Wrestling Federation of India president, Brijbhushan Sharan Singh, over allegations of sexual harassment. She joined the Congress party in September this year.
The Julana seat, traditionally considered a stronghold of the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) and Jannayak Janata Party (JJP), has seen a shift in the political landscape with Phogat’s victory.
The Congress had been facing an uphill battle in Julana, having lost the previous assembly elections by a significant margin. Phogat’s victory is a testament to her popularity and the voters’ confidence in her abilities.
First Piper 