Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya on Monday strongly criticized the Congress and Trinamool Congress (TMC) over remarks made by their leaders targeting Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma’s fitness and leadership. He urged them to refrain from making personal attacks on sportspersons.

The backlash stemmed from comments by Congress National Spokesperson Shama Mohamed, who labeled Rohit Sharma as “fat for a sportsperson” and called his captaincy the “most unimpressive” in India's cricket history. TMC leader Saugata Roy supported Mohamed’s stance, stating that Rohit Sharma should not be leading the team and questioning his place in the squad.

Mandaviya took to X (formerly Twitter) to condemn these statements, asserting, "Congress and TMC should leave sportspersons alone as they are fully capable of handling their professional lives." He further criticized the remarks as "deeply shameful" and "pathetic," emphasizing that such comments undermine the dedication and sacrifices athletes make to represent the nation at the highest level.

The BJP swiftly responded to Mohamed’s post, accusing the Congress of engaging in body-shaming and disrespecting a World Cup-winning captain. BJP leader Radhika Khera, who previously left the Congress to join the BJP, condemned her former party, alleging that it had a history of belittling athletes.

Following the controversy, the Congress distanced itself from Mohamed’s remarks, clarifying that they were her personal views and did not reflect the party’s stance. Congress leader Pawan Khera reaffirmed the party’s respect for sporting icons, stating, "The Indian National Congress holds the contributions of our sportspersons in the highest regard and does not endorse statements that diminish their legacy."

BCCI Vice President and Congress leader Rajeev Shukla also stepped in, defending Rohit Sharma’s credentials. He emphasized that Rohit was in good form, leading the team effectively, and remained a key player in Indian cricket.

Shama Mohamed’s initial post, which triggered widespread backlash, was later deleted following internal party intervention. Meanwhile, Saugata Roy’s comments mirrored Mohamed’s, as he maintained that Rohit Sharma was unfit for the captaincy and did not merit a place in the team. The TMC has yet to respond to the remarks made by their MP.

The controversy highlights the intersection of sports and politics, with calls from multiple quarters urging political leaders to avoid personal criticism of athletes who dedicate themselves to bringing glory to the nation.