Wrestler Bajrang Punia receives death threat message on WhatsApp, sender asks him to quit Congress

Digital Desk: Bajrang Punia, the star wrestler and newly appointed chairman of the All India Kisan Congress, received a chilling death threat via WhatsApp on Sunday. The threatening message, sent from an international number, warned Punia to leave Congress or face severe consequences. "Bajrang, quit Congress else it will not be good for you and your family. This is our last message. Before the elections, we will show you what we are. Complain wherever you want, this is our first and last warning," the message stated.

Punia took immediate action by lodging a complaint at the Bahalgarh police station in Sonipat. The local authorities have commenced an investigation into the threat, ensuring that the situation is addressed promptly.

This incident follows Punia's recent foray into politics. On September 6, Punia and fellow Olympian Vinesh Phogat, who were prominent figures in the wrestlers' protest against former WFI chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, joined the Congress party. Their entry into politics has been marked by a commitment to stand firm against intimidation and to advance their political agendas.

In their new roles, Punia has been appointed as the chairman of the Congress farmers' unit, while Phogat has secured a party ticket to contest the election from the Julana assembly segment. Both athletes met with Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and other senior party officials, including KC Venugopal, Deepak Babaria, Uday Bhan, and Pawan Khera, during their induction into the party.

Phogat, reflecting on their recent political alignment, criticized the BJP for its support of Singh, contrasting it with the Congress's backing of the wrestlers during their protest. This protest, which drew attention to sexual harassment allegations against Singh, was a pivotal moment for both Punia and Phogat.

With Haryana's elections scheduled for October 5 and vote counting set for October 8, the political landscape is poised for significant developments as Punia and Phogat navigate these turbulent times.