New Delhi: A news anchor from a popular Indian TV channel criticized Vinesh Phogat for her lack of preparedness for the Olympics after she was disqualified due to weight issues. The unidentified journalist remarked that there was no reason to feel bad after the disqualification, emphasizing the importance of readiness beforehand. This surprising reaction to Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s last-minute disqualification at the Paris Olympic Games sparked outrage among netizens, who condemned the news anchor’s outrageous comments made on LiveTV
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third Class News Channel & News ANchor 😡#Phogat_Vineshpic.twitter.com/2ZJOA4lOEn
— Satire Baba (@Satire912) August 7, 2024
“I take an exam and keep telling myself I’ve failed, even after studying all night beforehand… These just end up being excuses (translated from Hindi)” the anchor remarked while drawing a parallel to Phogat’s situation. “This is upsetting but we must also think why such a situation occurred at the first place,” she continued, addressing a panelist, who highlighted how difficult it is for any athlete to lose two kilograms overnight.
Netizens lash out at anchor
The news anchor’s remarks were poorly received by the audience, who found them insulting. The video quickly went viral on social media, with many criticizing the anchor for her “insensitive and senseless” response to the disappointing news from the Olympics. Users on X expressed their outrage, condemning the live broadcast and calling for the anchor to “show respect or leave the journalism profession”.
Whoever this news anchor is can go to hell. Shame on you @News18India for letting this go air.
— Shruti Chaturvedi 🇮🇳 (@adhicutting) August 7, 2024
Do you have any shame left @News18India
Does this anchor have any shame left?Us ladki pe kya guzar rahi hogi tum log soch bhi nahi sakte. pic.twitter.com/VsVSD61lh7
— Arpit Sharma (@iArpitSpeaks) August 7, 2024
About Vinesh Phogat’s Disqualification
On August 7, Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat considered India’s best chance for a Gold medal at the Paris Olympics, was disqualified for failing to meet the weight requirements. She was deemed ineligible for the 50kg women’s wrestling category for being nearly 100 grams over the limit. Reports indicate that Phogat stayed up all night exercising to try to meet the weight criteria. Despite her efforts, which included jogging, skipping, and cycling, she was unable to qualify for the wrestling event.