How Saina Nehwal Prioritized BJP Loyalty Over Supporting Fellow Athletes
Saina Nehwal, one of India’s most celebrated badminton players, has recently drawn attention for her comments regarding Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification from the Paris Olympics 2024. While Nehwal is known for her achievements in sports, her recent remarks have raised questions about her objectivity and her silence on crucial issues affecting fellow athletes, particularly those involving her party, the BJP.
The Disqualification of Vinesh Phogat
Vinesh Phogat, a well-known Indian wrestler, was disqualified from the Paris Olympics 2024 due to a weight-related issue. This incident was shocking, especially considering Phogat’s experience and her reputation as a “fighter” who consistently delivers strong performances. The disqualification was unexpected, and it left many fans and fellow athletes in disbelief.
Saina Nehwal’s Response: Blaming the Athlete
In response to Phogat’s disqualification, Saina Nehwal publicly blamed the wrestler, stating that as an experienced athlete, Phogat should have known better. Nehwal emphasized that Phogat was not participating in her first Olympics and should have been aware of the rules. This criticism came as a surprise to many, particularly because it seemed harsh and lacking in empathy for a fellow athlete who was already dealing with the disappointment of disqualification.
Nehwal’s remarks were especially surprising given the fact that she herself has faced challenges and knows the pressures of performing on such a big stage. Instead of showing support or understanding, Nehwal chose to point fingers, placing the entire blame on Phogat. This attitude reflects a lack of solidarity among athletes, which is crucial in times of distress.
Saina Nehwal’s Silence on Important Issues
While Nehwal was quick to criticize Phogat, her silence on several other important issues has not gone unnoticed. Vinesh Phogat, along with other wrestlers, was allegedly sexually harassed by BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. During this difficult time, Nehwal, who is a spokesperson for the BJP, chose to remain silent. Her lack of support for Phogat and other wrestlers during their protests against Brij Bhushan was striking.
Nehwal did not speak out when Phogat and others were beaten by the police at the protest site. She remained silent when Phogat struggled to get a visa for her tournament abroad, and she did not comment when Phogat was forced into the 50 kg category by the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), despite wanting to compete in the 53 kg category. These are critical issues that affected Phogat’s career, yet Nehwal, who could have used her platform to advocate for justice and fairness, chose not to.
Political Bias and Silence on Controversial Issues
Saina Nehwal’s recent actions and statements reflect a political bias that seems to influence her public persona. Nehwal joined the BJP four years ago, and since then, she has often aligned herself with the party’s stance on various issues. This political alignment appears to have affected her objectivity, particularly in cases involving fellow athletes who have faced challenges under the current administration.
For instance, Nehwal did not speak out when Phogat and other wrestlers were allegedly sexually harassed by Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, a BJP MP. Her silence during the wrestlers’ protest was deafening, especially when the athletes were mistreated by the authorities. As a woman and a prominent athlete, Nehwal’s voice could have made a significant difference, yet she chose to remain silent, possibly due to her allegiance to the BJP.
Furthermore, Nehwal’s recent Instagram story, where she falsely attributed a quote to Rahul Gandhi, reflects a willingness to spread misinformation in line with her party’s narrative. By sharing a quote that was not actually said by Gandhi, Nehwal misled her followers and contributed to the political polarization in the country. This action further undermines her credibility as a public figure who is expected to act responsibly.
Lack of Support for Vinesh Phogat
One of the most glaring issues with Nehwal’s recent behavior is her lack of support for Vinesh Phogat during crucial moments in the wrestler’s career. Phogat, who has been a consistent performer for India, faced several challenges in the lead-up to the Paris Olympics. Despite these struggles, Nehwal did not offer any public support or encouragement.
When Phogat was denied a visa for an important tournament abroad, Nehwal remained silent. This lack of support is disappointing, especially considering that both athletes have represented India on the international stage and should have a sense of camaraderie. Nehwal also did not speak out when Phogat was forced into the 50 kg category by the WFI, despite her preference to compete in the 53 kg category. This decision by the WFI was controversial and could have had a significant impact on Phogat’s performance, yet Nehwal chose not to intervene or offer any support.
Nehwal’s Support for the Government
Saina Nehwal’s support for the government is evident in her actions and statements. Her criticism of Vinesh Phogat appears to align with the government’s narrative, which often places the blame on individuals rather than addressing systemic issues. By blaming Phogat for her disqualification, Nehwal is effectively absolving the sports administration and government of any responsibility.
This support for the government is also evident in Nehwal’s silence during the controversy surrounding the Wrestling Federation of India and its treatment of athletes. The WFI, under the leadership of BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, has been accused of mistreating athletes and making decisions that are not in their best interest. Nehwal’s decision to remain silent on these issues suggests that her political affiliations may be influencing her public statements.
The Need for Accountability
While it is important for athletes to take responsibility for their performances, it is equally important to hold the sports administration and government accountable for their role in supporting athletes. The disqualification of Vinesh Phogat should not be seen as an isolated incident but as a reflection of the broader issues in Indian sports.
The government and sports bodies must provide athletes with the necessary support, infrastructure, and resources to succeed on the international stage. This includes ensuring that athletes are well-prepared for competitions, have access to the best training facilities, and are supported by experienced coaches and support staff. When these systems fail, it is unfair to place the entire blame on the athletes.
Saina Nehwal’s criticism of Vinesh Phogat and her silence on other crucial issues reflect a biased and politically influenced stance that does not serve the interests of Indian athletes. As a public figure and a spokesperson for the BJP, Nehwal has a responsibility to be fair and objective in her statements. Her recent actions, however, suggest that her political affiliations may be clouding her judgment.
It is essential for prominent figures like Nehwal to use their platforms to advocate for fairness and justice, especially in the world of sports, where athletes often face significant challenges. Criticizing fellow athletes without acknowledging the systemic issues they face does a disservice to the entire sports community. Moving forward, Nehwal and other influential figures should strive to be more balanced in their public statements, ensuring that they support their fellow athletes while also holding the sports administration and government accountable for their role in nurturing talent and ensuring success on the international stage.
Sources
https://www.livemint.com/sports/news/vinesh-phogat-blame-disqualified-paris-olympics-2024-says-saina-nehwal-she-is-an-experienced-athlete-11723024927643.html
https://www.firstpost.com/sports/olympics-2024-vinesh-phogat-weight-disqualification-wrestling-saina-nehwal-13802240.html
https://www.oneindia.com/sports/she-should-take-the-blame-too-saina-nehwal-on-vinesh-phogats-disqualification-from-olympics-3900701.html
https://www.outlookindia.com/sports/others/vinesh-phogats-mistake-too-in-disqualification-from-paris-olympics-says-former-medalist-saina-nehwal
