On August 8, alleged independent journalist Sakshi Joshi questioned if Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not talked to Bronze medal winner Bajrang Punia because he supported farmers protests. She said, “Did he not speak to @BajrangPunia yet because of his stand on Farmer’s protest?”
She was not the only one to make such allegations against PM Modi. Aam Aadmi Party’s Shaleen Mitra had raised similar concerns. He claimed, “We are waiting when Prime Minister would speak to Bajrang Punia who brought pride for India,” in Hindi.
However, if only they’d have bothered to pay attention they’d know that PM Modi has already spoken to Punia.
PM Modi’s conversation with Punia
On the contrary to the allegations made against PM Modi, he has already congratulated Punia over the call on August 7.
https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1423970555473010690?ref_src=twsrc%5EtfwAccording to News Agency ANI, PM had spoken to Punia and congratulated him on winning the bronze medal. He also lauded Punia for the determination and hard work that led to the accomplishment.
Punia’s support for farmers protest has no impact on support from the government
Punia has been a vocal supporter of the farmer protests and published tweets in favour of the so-called farmers. He had urged the government to initiate talks with the farmers and end the blockade between the union government and farmer unions. However, his support for the protests did not stop PM Modi or other BJP leaders from supporting him or congratulating him for the win.
https://twitter.com/BajrangPunia/status/1424061301286858753?ref_src=twsrc%5EtfwPunia has numerous photos and posts with former sports minister Kiren Rijiju.
https://twitter.com/BajrangPunia/status/1424062060254547969?ref_src=twsrc%5EtfwAfter his win in the Olympics, Home Minister Amit Shah also congratulated him for the win.
https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1423967278966525956?ref_src=twsrc%5EtfwSports Minister Anurag Thakur also published a video where he was seen celebrating the moments when Punia won the match.
https://twitter.com/BajrangPunia/status/1424061763859881988?ref_src=twsrc%5EtfwOn the other hand, the ‘liberals’ have been cancelling Olympic gold medal winner Neeraj Chopra because of his support to the PM Modi.