Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar has claimed that the wrestlers' protest led by Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia was politically motivated, asserting that their recent meeting with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi indicates a 'nexus' between the athletes and the party. Khattar stated that the protests, which were aimed at addressing serious allegations against former BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, have escalated as the wrestlers seek tickets to contest in the upcoming Haryana assembly elections. Congress is reportedly considering offering seats to Phogat and Punia, with discussions ongoing about potential constituencies. The Haryana assembly elections are scheduled for October 5, with vote counting on October 8. Khattar's comments reflect the BJP's strategy to undermine the credibility of the wrestlers' protests amid election speculation. The political landscape in Haryana is tense as Congress aims to capitalize on anti-incumbency sentiment following recent Lok Sabha elections.