Unidentified news anchor expressed her disapproval of Phogat’s performance (x/@Satire912)
A news anchor from a prominent Indian television channel has faced backlash for her critical comments regarding wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification from the 50kg freestyle wrestling final at the Paris Olympics. The anchor's remarks, made following Phogat's removal due to weight issues, have been widely condemned as insensitive and dismissive.
The unidentified news anchor expressed her disapproval of Phogat’s performance, questioning the athlete's preparation for the crucial event. "Why did this situation arise?" the anchor asked during a live broadcast. She drew an analogy to an examination scenario, saying, "I go to appear for an examination and I keep saying that I have failed despite studying the entire night before the exam... These just become mere reasons."
third Class News Channel & News ANchor 😡#Phogat_Vineshpic.twitter.com/2ZJOA4lOEn
— Satire Baba (@Satire912) August 7, 2024
The anchor’s comments were directed at the fact that Phogat was disqualified for being slightly overweight, despite her efforts to lose weight, which included strenuous last-minute measures.
The anchor’s remarks quickly sparked outrage on social media. Many viewers found her comments to be both harsh and out of touch with the struggles faced by athletes. "Whoever this news anchor is can go to hell. Shame on you," wrote one user on X (formerly Twitter), reflecting the sentiment of many others who criticized the anchor’s lack of empathy.
Whoever this news anchor is can go to hell. Shame on you @News18India for letting this go air.
— Shruti Chaturvedi 🇮🇳 (@adhicutting) August 7, 2024
pic.twitter.com/l9znRaDcjK
Do you have any shame left @News18India
— Arpit Sharma (@iArpitSpeaks) August 7, 2024
Does this anchor have any shame left?
Us ladki pe kya guzar rahi hogi tum log soch bhi nahi sakte. pic.twitter.com/VsVSD61lh7
The reaction to the news anchor’s comments highlights a broader sensitivity towards the pressures and challenges faced by athletes. Vinesh Phogat’s situation, involving dehydration and a last-minute struggle to meet weight requirements, has been a source of concern and sympathy among the public. The anchor's remarks, in contrast, were perceived as diminishing these struggles.
The video of the anchor's comments has since gone viral, amplifying the criticism and serving as a reminder of the need for compassionate reporting, especially in the context of high-stakes sports events.
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