From Boxing Ring to Ballot Box: World Champion Saweety Boora Eyes Political Arena

In a surprising move that has caught the attention of both sports enthusiasts and political observers, world champion boxer Saweety Boora has announced her intention to enter the political arena. The decorated athlete, known as Haryana's 'Punch Queen', has set her sights on contesting the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections from the Barwala constituency on a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ticket. 

Boora made this announcement during a felicitation ceremony held in her maternal village of Sarsaud in Barwala, where she was honored by various Khaps and local communities for her sporting achievements. The boxer, who joined the BJP in January 2024, expressed her readiness to take on this new challenge, stating, "I am a farmer's daughter, and I believe farmers will bless their daughter. Just as I brought glory to the country in sports, I am prepared to work for the nation in politics." 

The 31-year-old athlete's foray into politics comes after a stellar career in boxing, where she transitioned from kabaddi to become a world champion. Boora's journey from a rural background to international sports stardom has made her a role model for many young women in Haryana and across India. 

In her address, Saweety Boora emphasized her commitment to becoming a voice for women and girls. She said, "I am ready to be the voice of women and daughters. If the party gives me the responsibility, I will fulfill it to the best of my abilities." This stance aligns with the BJP's focus on women's empowerment and could potentially resonate with female voters in the region. 

The Barwala constituency, where Boora hopes to contest, has shown a recent tilt towards the BJP. In the last Lok Sabha elections, despite the BJP's overall loss in Hisar, the party maintained a lead in Barwala. This factor, combined with Boora's popularity and rural connect, could make her a strong candidate for the party. However, Boora's political ambitions are not without challenges. The Barwala seat has traditionally seen candidates from Jat and OBC communities, reflecting the significant voter base from these groups. As a newcomer to politics, Boora will need to navigate the complex local political landscape and build a strong support base. 

The boxer's entry into politics also highlights a growing trend of sportspersons transitioning to public service roles. Her background as a constable in the Haryana Police and her achievements in sports could appeal to young voters and those advocating for better sports infrastructure in the state.

\As the assembly elections draw closer, all eyes will be on the BJP's ticket distribution process. Saweety Boora's candidacy, if confirmed, could add an exciting dimension to the electoral battle in Barwala and potentially influence the broader political narrative in Haryana. 

For now, the 'Punch Queen' remains optimistic about her political future, stating that even if she doesn't receive the ticket, she will continue to work for the party. As Haryana prepares for the upcoming elections, Saweety Boora's potential entry into politics marks an intriguing intersection of sports, youth leadership, and women's empowerment in the state's political landscape.