Completely gutted: Abhinav Bindra reacts to Phogat’s Olympic disqualification

Abhinav Bindra, Independent India’s first individual Olympic gold medalist, has voiced his support for wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who was disqualified from the women’s 50 kg freestyle wrestling at the Paris Olympics due to being overweight.

Bindra took to X, expressing his dismay: “Completely gutted. Sometimes you don’t need a gold medal to be a true champion to people…”

Among those offering consolatory messages is Prime Minister Narendra Modi. On X, Modi wrote, “Vinesh, you are a champion among champions! You are India's pride and an inspiration for every Indian. Today's setback hurts. I wish words could express the sense of despair that I am experiencing. At the same time, I know that you epitomize resilience. It has always been your nature to take challenges head-on. Come back stronger! We are all rooting for you.”

Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification has also sparked a debate in Parliament. Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya is scheduled to make a statement in the Lok Sabha at 3 PM regarding the wrestler’s disqualification.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President, PT Usha, is expected to respond soon. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister’s office is closely monitoring the situation.

The internet was abuzz with reactions following the shocking news.

Prominent boxer Vijender Singh commented, "An additional 100 grams doesn’t really matter."

Renowned journalist and author labeled the disqualification as a national sporting tragedy, describing it as a failure of the team, contingent leaders, and coach.

Vinesh had scripted history by becoming the first Indian woman wrestler to reach the gold medal bout in the event on Tuesday night. Before this morning, she was assured of at least a silver medal but will now be coming back empty-handed due to the disqualification.

"She was found overweight by 100gm this morning. The rules do not allow this and she has been disqualified," said an Indian coach.

The Indian Olympic Association later confirmed the development and requested privacy for the wrestler, who was competing in her third Olympics.

"It is with regret that the Indian contingent shares news of the disqualification of Vinesh Phogat from the women's Wrestling 50kg class. Despite the best efforts by the team through the night, she weighed in a few grams over 50kg this morning," the IOA stated.

"No further comments will be made by the contingent at this time. The Indian team requests you to respect Vinesh's privacy. It would like to focus on the competitions on hand," it added.

International rules stipulate that any grappler found overweight at the time of weigh-in ends up at the bottom of the final standings. (With inputs from Agencies)