Vinesh Phogat's potential political entry could shake up Haryana Assembly polls
Chandigarh: As speculation grows about wrestler Vinesh Phogat's possible entry into politics, the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections, could witness significant shifts. If Phogat, who actively participated in the protests against former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over sexual harassment allegations, decides to contest, it may intensify the controversy surrounding the former WFI chief.
Phogat's involvement in these protests and her support for farmers' movements have led to speculation that she may align with the Congress party. Her entry into politics could be a game-changer, especially given the anti-incumbency sentiment, ongoing farmers' protests, and the discontent among government employees.
Phogat, who hails from a family with a political background, has hinted at the pressure to join politics but has yet to make a final decision. Her cousin, Babita Phogat, who contested the 2019 Haryana Assembly election on a BJP ticket, has expressed differing views on the protests and the Congress, highlighting a potential rivalry if Vinesh contests from the Dadri constituency.
The Congress, which benefited from the discontent among the Jat community and farmers in the recent Lok Sabha elections, has shown interest in Vinesh Phogat joining its ranks.
Senior Congress leaders, including Bhupinder Singh Hooda and his son Deepender Singh Hooda, have welcomed the idea of her entering politics.
As the Haryana Assembly polls approach, Vinesh Phogat's decision could play a pivotal role in shaping the electoral landscape, particularly in rural areas where the Congress currently holds an edge.
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'Red' alert for severe thunderstorms, hailstorms issued in Delhi
New Delhi (PTI): A "red" alert for severe thunderstorms and hailstorms was issued for Delhi late on Sunday evening, with some parts of the national capital placed under an "orange" alert, as residents were advised to be prepared for potentially-disruptive weather conditions.
A "red" alert stands for "take action", indicating severe weather conditions.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), severe thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, hailstorms, dust storms and moderate rainfall, along with gusty winds reaching speeds of up to 80 kmph, are very likely over the city, with some areas expected to witness moderate thunderstorm activity.
The IMD said a "red" alert has been issued for Outer North Delhi, Northwest Delhi, West Delhi, Southwest Delhi, parts of North Delhi, Central Delhi, Northeast Delhi and Shahdara, while South Delhi, Southeast Delhi and parts of North Delhi remain under an "orange" alert. Similar thunderstorm conditions are also likely at isolated places across various locations in Delhi-NCR.
The weather office warned of likely impacts, including the breaking of large tree branches, uprooting of weak or old trees, lightning strikes at vulnerable locations, such as tall trees and electric poles, and disruption of municipal services.
"Damage to kutcha houses, huts and weak structures, partial collapse of boundary walls, difficult driving conditions and possible road accidents are also likely. Vehicles may also be damaged due to falling branches or debris," it said.
Residents have been advised to move to safe buildings, avoid weak structures and stay away from windows during the storm.
Authorities have cautioned against taking shelter under trees or going near water bodies and advised people to unplug electrical equipment and avoid contact with metallic objects, water taps and pipes. People have also been asked to park vehicles in safe locations and, if caught during the storm while driving, to pull over safely and remain inside the vehicle.
They have further been advised to stay away from electric poles and power lines and remain alert to flying debris, officials said.
