Wrestler Vinesh Phogat joins farmers’ protest at Shambhu Border, warns 'Country won’t progress'

Renowned wrestler Vinesh Phogat joined the farmers’ protest at the Shambhu border on Saturday, as the agitation marked its 200th day. The protest, which began after authorities blocked the farmers' march to Delhi on February 13, continues to demand a legal guarantee for the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for all crops, along with other crucial issues affecting the agricultural community.

A Protest That Resiliently Persists

For 200 days, farmers have been steadfast in their demands, enduring harsh conditions at the Shambhu border. This significant milestone was commemorated with a large gathering, where Phogat’s presence highlighted the ongoing struggle. Her participation underlines the widespread support the farmers’ cause has garnered from various segments of society, including prominent athletes.

Vinesh Phogat’s Emotional Appeal

Addressing the crowd, Vinesh Phogat expressed her deep concern over the prolonged protest. “It has been 200 days since they are sitting here. It is painful to see this. All of them are citizens of this country. Farmers run the country. Nothing is possible without them, not even athletes - if they don’t feed us, we won’t be able to compete,” she stated. Phogat also emphasized the helplessness felt by many who, despite representing the country at international levels, find themselves unable to support their families during such trying times.

#WATCH | Wrestler Vinesh Phogat arrives at the farmers' protest site at Shambhu border, as the agitation completes 200 days.

She says, "It has been 200 days since they are sitting here. It is painful to see this. All of them are citizens of this country. Farmers run the… pic.twitter.com/MJo9XEqpko

— ANI (@ANI) August 31, 2024

Phogat urged the government to listen to the farmers’ demands and fulfill the promises previously made. She warned that the country’s progress is at stake if citizens continue to be forced into such desperate measures, saying, “The country won’t progress if people sit on streets like this…”