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In a significant development shaking the political landscape, boxer Vijender Singh has made the leap to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), dealing yet another blow to the Congress just weeks before the Lok Sabha elections.
Having previously joined the Congress in 2019, Singh’s unsuccessful bid in the general elections from the South Delhi constituency saw him lose to the BJP’s Ramesh Bidhuri.
Recent reports suggest that the Congress had intended to field the 38-year-old pugilist against BJP MP Hema Malini, who is once again a candidate from the Mathura seat. This strategic move was aimed at bolstering BJP’s hold on votes from the Jat community, particularly crucial in Haryana and Western Uttar Pradesh. It is anticipated that Singh will undertake extensive campaigning for the BJP in these regions.
Renowned as the first Indian boxer to secure an Olympic medal – a bronze at the 2008 Beijing Olympics – Singh’s illustrious career includes silver medals at the 2006 and 2014 Commonwealth Games, alongside bronze medals at the 2010 edition and the 2009 World Championships.
Expressing his sentiments upon joining the BJP in the presence of party General Secretary Vinod Tawde, Singh stated, “This is like a homecoming for me. I contested the elections in 2019, and it’s good to be back. The respect that sportspersons are receiving in the country and abroad under the BJP-led government is commendable. I aim to contribute to this government, assist the people, and guide them on the right path. I remain the same Vijender, unafraid to speak the truth.”
Singh further expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP for the reverence accorded to athletes under their administration. “I am thankful to PM Modi and the BJP for the respect shown towards sportspersons. I aspire to be a part of this government, serving the people and advocating for their welfare. My principles remain steadfast, and I will continue to speak my mind,” he affirmed.
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