In a shocking turn of events, wrestler Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the Paris Olympics for being overweight by just 100 grams. Prime Minister Narendra Modi quickly took to social media, encouraging the wrestler not to lose hope and to come back stronger.

“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,” Modi posted on X.

The disqualification has left the nation in despair, as Vinesh Phogat had assured a medal after a stellar performance in earlier bouts.

In an exclusive interview, boxer Vijender Singh called the disqualification a conspiracy against India and its wrestlers. ‘It’s a huge conspiracy against India and Indian wrestlers. The way she has performed is worth appreciating. Maybe some people couldn’t digest the happiness. We can reduce five to six kgs in one night, so what’s the problem with 100 grams? I feel that someone had some problems and so the step to disqualify was taken. She should have got a chance to reduce the 100 grams,’ he said.

‘Having participated in the Olympics, I have never seen anything like this,’ Vijender added. He emphasized the importance of recovery over food intake for athletes, especially when controlling weight.

BJP MP Ravi Kishan and business tycoon Anand Mahindra also expressed their dismay. Kishan reposted Modi’s tweet, while Mahindra wrote, ‘NO! NO! NO! Please make this a bad dream that I will wake up from and find it isn’t true.’

Home Minister Amit Shah tweeted, “Vinesh Phogat’s setback in the Olympics has certainly broken the hopes of millions of Indians. She has a brilliant sporting career, shining with the glory of defeating the world champion. This misfortune is merely an exception in her trailblazing career, from which I am sure she will bounce back to be the winner she always is. Our best wishes and support are always with her.”