Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): The Aam Aadmi Party’s organizational presence in Punjab received a significant boost on Wednesday as celebrated wrestler Pritpal Singh Phagwara officially joined the party ranks. The induction took place in Chandigarh in the presence of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, marking a high-profile transition for the athlete into active politics. Known for holding prestigious traditional titles such as Rustum-e-Hind and Hind Kesari, Phagwara is a prominent figure in the Indian wrestling circuit, and his entry is expected to strengthen the party’s influence, particularly within the sports community and the Doaba region.
During the induction ceremony, Chief Minister Mann welcomed the wrestler by presenting him with a ceremonial siropa, noting that the inclusion of grounded and accomplished sportspersons is a testament to the youth’s growing faith in the state’s developmental policies. The Chief Minister emphasized that Phagwara’s background as a “son of the soil” aligns with the party’s mission to revitalize Punjab’s cultural and athletic heritage. The event was also attended by OSD Rajvir, further underlining the significance the party leadership attaches to this new recruitment.
Pritpal Singh Phagwara stated that his decision to enter the political arena was motivated by the Chief Minister’s “Rangla Punjab” vision and the government’s efforts to improve the state’s infrastructure. He expressed a keen interest in working under the Chief Minister’s guidance to combat drug addiction by promoting a robust sports culture among the Punjabi youth. Phagwara pledged to use his platform to ensure that public welfare schemes reach the grassroots level, specifically focusing on creating better facilities for aspiring athletes in rural areas.
The timing of this induction is noteworthy as it follows the recent joining of another wrestling icon, Jassa Patti, indicating a concerted effort by the AAP to consolidate support among the state’s traditional sporting circles. Political analysts suggest that by bringing in local heroes with deep roots in the akhara culture, the party aims to further secure its connect with the rural electorate. As Phagwara embarks on his political journey, his primary role is expected to involve youth outreach and the promotion of athletic initiatives across the state.
