Congress leader Rahul Gandhi made an unannounced visit to an "akhara" in Jhajjar district, Haryana, on Wednesday morning, where he interacted with a group of wrestlers, including Bajrang Punia.

According to a senior Haryana Congress leader from the district, Gandhi arrived at the "Virender Akhara" in Chhara village early in the morning.

Wrestling Coach Virendra Arya, expressing surprise, commented, "Nobody informed us about his visit. We were in the midst of our practice when he unexpectedly arrived."

"He joined us around 6:15 am, engaging in exercises with our group. He shared insights about his fitness routine and sports. He possesses substantial knowledge about sports... National competitions are forthcoming, but what about the current challenges we face?... What actions can be taken by him (Rahul Gandhi)? Only the government holds that power," Arya added.

Gandhi's meeting with the wrestlers occurred amidst a backdrop of controversy surrounding the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI).

Recently, Vinesh Phogat, a two-time World Championship medalist, made headlines by deciding to return her Khel Ratna and Arjuna awards to the Prime Minister. She highlighted that such accolades have lost significance when wrestlers are battling for justice.

Phogat's decision followed the actions of Olympic medalist Punia and Deaflympics champion Virender Singh Yadav, who returned their Padma Shri awards. Additionally, Rio Games bronze medalist Sakshi Malik opted to step away from the sport after Sanjay Singh was appointed WFI president on December 21.

Sanjay Singh's affiliation with Brij Bhushan Singh Sharan raised concerns among the wrestlers, as they opposed any association with a BJP MP in the WFI.

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