Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has sharply criticized the coaching staff of wrestler Vinesh Phogat, blaming them for her disqualification from the Paris Olympics due to being overweight. This marks the second time Mann has taken aim at Phogat's coaching team after her exclusion from the women's 50 kg final bout for being 100 grams over the weight limit.
At a state-level event in Issru village, Ludhiana, Mann remarked, ?Coaches and staff are duty-bound to maintain wrestlers? weight under prescribed norms as they get hefty salaries from the public exchequer. However, there was a serious lapse in this case, which has bruised the psyche of millions of sports lovers.?
Mann's comments follow his previous statement suggesting Phogat could have adjusted her weight by cutting her hair. He questioned the effectiveness of the coaching staff, saying, ?What is 100 grams or 50 grams (overweight)? A mistake has taken place at such a level. What are the physiotherapists and coaches there for? They take salaries in lakhs. What have they gone there to do? Have they gone there to roam around??
The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) rejected Phogat's appeal against her disqualification earlier this week.
In his speech, Mann also highlighted his government?s achievements, including improvements in schools and hospitals. He noted that schools have been equipped with advanced technology and hospitals have seen significant infrastructure upgrades. The introduction of Aam Aadmi Clinics and Schools of Eminence has been pivotal in transforming state services.
Addressing issues of corruption and drug abuse, Mann accused previous governments of fostering these problems. He assured that his administration has implemented a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption, with a crackdown already underway to root out corrupt practices.
Mann?s statements reflect ongoing concerns and controversies surrounding Phogat?s Olympic experience, while also showcasing his administration?s broader policy initiatives and commitments to addressing systemic issues in Punjab.
