Cong leader labels Rohit Sharma as ‘fat sportsman,’ sparks political storm

Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed’s remarks on cricketer Rohit Sharma during the India-New Zealand Champions Trophy clash sparked a storm on social media on Sunday. However, the controversy refuses to die down, with both political figures and the sporting fraternity condemning her comments.

While the match was underway, Shama Mohamed took to X and labeled Rohit Sharma a “fat sportsman.”

“Rohit Sharma is fat for a sportsman! Needs to lose weight! And of course, the most unimpressive captain India has ever had,” she wrote in a now-deleted post.

Her remarks, widely seen as fat-shaming one of India's top cricketers, triggered massive backlash. As the controversy escalated, the BJP also weighed in, slamming the Congress party over the “obnoxious” remarks.

BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari lashed out at  Congress for targeting one of India’s most successful cricketers and also took a swipe at Rahul Gandhi.

"Shame on Congress! Now they are going after the Indian cricket captain! Do they expect Rahul Gandhi to take up cricket after failing in politics?" Bhandari said in response to Mohamed’s comments.

"It's an insult to every patriot who stands by the Indian cricket team through thick and thin. I question the Congress's criticism," he added.

Shame on Congress!

Now they are going after the Indian Cricket Captain!

Do they expect Rahul Gandhi to now play cricket after failing in Indian politics! https://t.co/taWuC8bqgi

— Pradeep Bhandari(प्रदीप भंडारी)🇮🇳 (@pradip103) March 2, 2025

Under growing pressure, Shama Mohamed deleted her social media posts on the issue.

Congress finds itself isolated once again on a national controversy. SS (UBT), a key ally of the INDIA bloc, came out in support of Rohit Sharma and wished him success in the Champions Trophy.

“Not an avid cricket fan, but even with my limited interest in the game, I can say that Rohit Sharma—whether with extra pounds or without—has led Team India to great heights. His work and commitment are what truly matter. Win the trophy, Champion!” wrote Priyanka Chaturvedi on X.

Rohit Sharma, who took over as Team India captain in 2021, has led the team to victory in the T20 World Cup last year and secured two Asia Cup titles. In the IPL, he boasts an impressive record, lifting the trophy five times with Mumbai Indians.

(With IANS Inputs)