New Delhi: Wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who recently resigned from her position with the Indian Railways to join the Congress party, has been served a show cause notice by her former employer. This development was revealed by Congress leader KC Venugopal during a press conference at the All India Congress Committee (AICC) headquarters, where he welcomed both Phogat and fellow wrestler Bajrang Punia into the party.
According to Venugopal, the notice was sent to Phogat via WhatsApp, a move he criticized as unnecessary. He emphasized that Phogat’s only “crime” was meeting with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and called on Railway authorities to expedite her formal release, stating, “Don’t do politics; just complete the formalities.”
Earlier on Friday morning, Phogat announced her resignation from the Indian Railways on her official X account. In her post, she expressed her decision to part ways with the organization, stating, “At this juncture in my life, I have decided to separate myself from the railway service and have submitted my resignation to the competent authorities of Indian Railways.” She further added, “I will always be thankful to the Indian Railways family for giving me the opportunity to serve the nation.”
Phogat, along with Bajrang Punia, joined the Congress ahead of the Haryana Assembly elections, marking a significant shift in their careers. During the event, Phogat reflected on her journey and the importance of solidarity, stating that it is in difficult times that one truly understands who stands by them. She expressed her deep gratitude to the Indian public for their unwavering support throughout her wrestling career and expressed hope to meet their expectations in her new political role.
Phogat also extended her thanks to the Congress party, emphasizing that it is during challenging moments that true support is revealed. She pointed out that when she and others were subjected to public humiliation, every political party except the BJP had stood by them, recognizing their pain and distress. She expressed pride in joining a party that actively opposes mistreatment and injustice against women.
Bajrang Punia, who also resigned from his position with the Indian Railways on the same day, echoed similar sentiments. In his resignation letter, Punia thanked Northern Railways for their guidance and support since his joining on September 13, 2014. He expressed his gratitude to his colleagues and requested to be relieved from his role as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) for Sports, citing personal reasons and family circumstances.
