Vinesh Phogat Slams Haryana Government's Sports Policy, Says 'It Was Best 4-5 Years Ago, Has Gone Worse Now'

Chandigarh, June 27: Indian Wrestler Vinesh Phogat on Thursday slammed Haryana's sports policy for not being of any use to any athlete. She said that in the last four to five years, the sports policy laid down by the state government of Haryana was not beneficial for sportspersons. Phogat stated., “Earlier, the state's sports policy was the best in the world but in last 4-5 years no athlete has benefited, be it a team game or individual game.” Wrestlers Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat Slam Haryana Govt’s Cash Reward Policy.

She also refuted the claims of Haryana sports minister Anil Vij that the state has the best sports policy. On Thursday, Vij claimed that his government has always given the biggest prize money as compared to the other states. Taking to reporters, he said, “We have not insulted any sportsmen in the state. In fact, we give them the highest winning amount in India. We give them the best job opportunities." Never Disrespected Any Athlete, Says Haryana Sports Minister Anil Vij.

The minister's reaction came after international wrestlers Bajrang Punia and Phogat slammed the Haryana Government’s new cash reward policy for sportspersons winning medals for India. They termed the decision an attempt to kill sports. Punia tweeted, “When you promise reward to a player, it is not money that you promise but support." Punia was awarded Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian award of the country. He was also a recipient of Arjuna Award in 2015.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 27, 2019 11:21 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).