October 8, 2024: In a significant political upset, Congress candidate and acclaimed wrestler Vinesh Phogat has secured her first electoral victory, winning the Julana seat in the Haryana Assembly elections. According to the Election Commission, Phogat triumphed over BJP’s Yogesh Kumar by a decisive margin of over 6,015 votes.
The election, held on October 5, saw Haryana record a voter turnout of 67.90%, while Julana's turnout was notably higher at 74.66%. Phogat, who initially led during the counting process, faced a brief setback when she fell behind but ultimately reclaimed her position to secure a comfortable win.
The Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) candidate Surender Lather finished in third place in this competitive constituency in Jind district.
Phogat’s victory marks a significant moment in Haryana’s political landscape, showcasing the growing influence of sports personalities in the political arena. As a well-known athlete, her entry into politics has garnered considerable attention, and this win could pave the way for more athletes to engage in public service.