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The article details a unique tribute planned for Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat by the khap panchayats, traditional social bodies in northern India. The khaps, demonstrating their solidarity with Vinesh after her controversial disqualification from the final bout at the Paris Games, have announced they will honor her with a 'gold medal' that will be equivalent in gold content to an Olympic gold medal. This gesture underlines the deep respect and admiration the khaps hold for Vinesh's athletic achievements and their disapproval of the circumstances surrounding her disqualification.
The khap panchayats, who wield considerable influence in rural areas, have organized an event in Vinesh's honor, scheduled to take place in Rohtak on August 25th. Several khap leaders, including Sombir Sangwan, an independent MLA and president of the Sangwan khap, visited Vinesh's native village of Balali to extend their invitation. Sangwan highlighted the symbolic significance of the 'gold medal', emphasizing that it would be crafted with the same weight and gold content as a genuine Olympic gold medal. The khap leaders, condemning Vinesh's disqualification as unfair and potentially orchestrated, underscored their belief that she had garnered immense public support and admiration, even surpassing the recognition accorded to a traditional gold medal winner.
The article sheds light on the strong social fabric and traditions within rural India, where the khaps play a crucial role in upholding social norms and resolving disputes. Their decision to honor Vinesh with a 'gold medal' signifies their staunch support for her, their disapproval of her disqualification, and their appreciation for her athletic accomplishments. The event organized in Vinesh's honor is expected to be a significant gathering of khap leaders and community members, reaffirming their commitment to supporting her and other athletes who represent India on the global stage.