New Delhi: Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma has found himself at the center of an unexpected controversy. A day after Team India’s dominant victory over New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 group stage, a political storm erupted over a comment made by Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed. Her remark about Rohit Sharma’s physique triggered widespread criticism, drawing reactions from various political leaders, including the BJP.
Congress Spokesperson’s Controversial Remark
Shama Mohamed sparked outrage when she made an allegedly offensive remark about Rohit Sharma, referring to him as “fat.” The comment did not sit well with fans, cricket officials, and even members of her own party. Following the backlash, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) strongly condemned the statement.
The controversy quickly escalated, with opposition parties, including the BJP, slamming Shama Mohamed for body-shaming India’s cricket captain. Amidst growing criticism, she was reportedly reprimanded by her own party, and her social media posts related to the incident were deleted.
BJP’s Response: “We Are Proud of Rohit Sharma”
Reacting to the controversy, BJP leader Haribhushan Thakur Bachaul criticized Congress, stating, “The Congress party, which Shama Mohamed represents, is led by Rahul Gandhi, who has been politically unfit for years, losing multiple elections. If anyone needs to focus on fitness, it’s their leadership. We are proud of Rohit Sharma and his achievements.”
The remark fueled further debates, with political figures and sports enthusiasts condemning the unnecessary attack on an athlete who has been leading the Indian cricket team with remarkable success.
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Shama Mohamed Defends Her Statement
As the controversy intensified, Shama Mohamed defended her comments in an interview with ANI. She stated, “It was a general observation about an athlete’s fitness, not body-shaming. I believe players should stay fit, and I felt that his weight had increased slightly. I did not intend to insult him. This is a democracy, and I have the right to express my views.”
Despite her clarification, the damage was done. Social media erupted with criticism, with many arguing that her comments were unnecessary and disrespectful to an athlete representing the nation at an international level.