Congress, TMC should leave athletes alone, says Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya over remark on Rohit Sharma

In a strong rebuttal to recent remarks made by leaders from the Congress and Trinamool Congress (TMC) on cricketer Rohit Sharma, Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya expressed his deep disapproval on Friday. He further urged the political parties to refrain from interfering in the lives of sportspersons.

Mandaviya called out the body-shaming comments and the undue scrutiny placed on athletes, asserting that such remarks were not only shameful but also “outright pathetic.”

“We should respect the dignity and professionalism of our sportspersons,” Mandaviya said in a statement on social media platform X.


“The political leaders from Congress and TMC who have indulged in body shaming and questioned the place of athletes in national teams are undermining the tremendous hard work, sacrifices, and dedication that these athletes make to represent India on the global stage," he added.



The remarks by Congress and TMC leaders came after a recent performance by the Indian captain in international competitions, which they criticised publicly, casting doubt on the athletes' capabilities and fitness levels.

TMC MP Sougata Ray had earlier backed Congress leader Dr Shama Mohammed's comments on X where she called Sharma "fat for a sportsman" and "the most unimpressive captain India has ever had."

This not only led to widespread backlash from sports communities but also drew concern from various sections of the public, who rallied in support of the athletes.

Meanwhile, the Congress party has distanced itself from the controversial comments made by its Natonal Spokesperson and asked her to remove the social media post.