Bajrang Punia, the Olympic wrestler and newly appointed working chairman of the All India Kisan Congress, received a death threat via WhatsApp shortly after joining the Congress party.
The message, sent from an international number, warned him to resign from the party or face severe consequences.
The threat stated, “Bajrang, quit Congress else it will not be good for you and your family. This is our last message. Before the polls, we will show you what we are. Complaint wherever you want, this is our first and last warning”.
Bajrang Punia lodged a formal complaint with the Bahalgarh police station in Sonipat, Haryana, where local authorities have initiated an investigation into the matter.
The police confirmed that they are taking the threat seriously, with Sonipat SP Ravindra Singh stating that legal action is underway following Punia’s report. The police have not yet identified the sender of the message, and the investigation is ongoing.
This incident occurred just two days after Bajrang Punia and fellow wrestler Vinesh Phogat officially joined the Congress party during a ceremony attended by senior party leaders.
Their political entry has been met with mixed reactions, especially in light of their previous protests against former BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who has faced allegations of sexual harassment from multiple wrestlers, including Bajrang Punia and Phogat.
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has assured that the matter will be thoroughly investigated, emphasizing that appropriate action will be taken against anyone found guilty of issuing threats.
The timing of the threat is particularly concerning as it coincides with the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections scheduled for October 5, 2024, raising questions about the safety of political figures during this sensitive period.
