Adille Sumariwalla, president of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) and member of the Mission Olympic Cell, clarified that Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification from the Paris Olympics is not due to any conspiracy. Emphasizing the importance of understanding the rules of sports, he explained that Vinesh failed to make the stipulated weight for her 50 kg gold medal bout, leading to her disqualification.
Vinesh Phogat, who had a remarkable run in the Olympics, made history as the first Indian woman wrestler to reach the gold medal in her event. However, her disqualification dashed India’s hopes of securing at least a silver medal, a heartbreaking development that ignited unfounded conspiracy theories and accusations of “betrayal.”
Addressing how such a situation could occur, Sumariwalla remarked, It’s not a mistake. It’s the human body. It happens but there is no conspiracy and people need to understand that. He added that Vinesh was dehydrated and is receiving treatment at the polyclinic set up by the Indian contingent, with top doctors including Chief Medical Officer Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala attending to her.
Sumariwalla’s statements come amidst claims from some opposition politicians suggesting a conspiracy behind Vinesh’s disqualification, calling for an inquiry without providing any evidence.
Echoing Sumariwalla’s sentiments, 2008 Olympic Torchbearer and journalist Digvijay Singh Deo urged people to dismiss conspiracy theories. He explained on social media platform X, “Stop this conspiracy theory. Gagan Narang, Dinshaw Pardiwala, her husband, physios, medical staff, IOA officials, people back in India, OGQ—they worked through the night to cut her weight. Dr. Pardiwala even said we cannot endanger her life.”
He further detailed the efforts made to help Vinesh, who was in significant pain as her body struggled. Despite attempts, including a final effort in the sauna, Vinesh’s condition did not improve, and she is currently receiving intravenous drips at the Olympic Village Polyclinic.
Following the devastating news, support for Vinesh has poured in from all directions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted his encouragement, urging Vinesh to come back stronger. He stated, “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.”
Additionally, the Prime Minister spoke with Indian Olympics Association (IOA) president PT Usha about Vinesh’s disqualification, asking her to explore all possible options to support Vinesh’s case, including filing a strong protest if it might help her situation.
