New Delhi: Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed faced backlash on social media after fat-shaming Team India captain Rohit Sharma. In response to her post on X, users defended Sharma by highlighting India’s strong performance under his leadership, earning him the nickname “Hitman” for his batting prowess.
As the controversy escalated, with the BJP accusing Congress of lacking patriotism, Ms. Mohamed deleted all her posts.
The Congress has distanced itself from Shama Mohamed’s remarks, stating they do not reflect the party’s stance. Pawan Khera, chairman of the party’s publicity department, confirmed that she was asked to delete the social media posts.
“Dr. Shama Mohamed, National Spokesperson of the Indian National Congress, made certain remarks about a cricketing legend that do not reflect the party’s position. She has been asked to remove the posts from X and advised to exercise greater caution in the future. The Indian National Congress deeply respects sporting icons and does not endorse any statements that undermine their legacy,” Mr. Khera posted.
During the India vs. New Zealand Champions Trophy clash yesterday, Shama Mohamed took to X to criticize Rohit Sharma, stating he is “fat for a sportsman.” She added, “Needs to lose weight! And of course, the most unimpressive captain India has ever had.”
“Fat-Shaming” Row: Congress Leader’s Dig at Rohit Sharma Sparks BJP Backlash
Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed stirred controversy with a post on X during the India vs. New Zealand Champions Trophy clash, criticizing Team India captain Rohit Sharma. “@ImRo45 is fat for a sportsman! Needs to lose weight! And of course, the most unimpressive captain India has ever had!” she wrote.
Her remarks were countered by a Pakistan-based sports journalist, who defended Sharma as a “mighty effective and world-class performer.” In response, Ms. Mohamed doubled down, questioning his credentials compared to past cricketing legends like Ganguly, Tendulkar, Dravid, Dhoni, Kohli, Kapil Dev, and Shastri. “He is a mediocre captain as well as a mediocre player who got lucky to be the captain of India,” she wrote.
The comments triggered a sharp rebuke from the ruling BJP, with spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari accusing the Congress of undermining national icons. “Shame on Congress! Now they are going after the Indian Cricket Captain! Do they expect Rahul Gandhi to play cricket after failing in Indian politics?” he responded.
Speaking to NDTV, Mr. Bhandari further slammed the remarks, calling them reflective of the Congress’s “Emergency mindset.” “This is an insult to every patriot who supports the Indian cricket team through thick and thin. I question the Congress’s criticism,” he added.
Later, Ms. Mohamed attempted to clarify her remarks, comparing Rohit Sharma to former captain Virat Kohli, stating that Kohli always praises fellow cricketers. “I was speaking in a general sense. I don’t understand why, in a democracy, we don’t have the right to express our opinions,” she said.
Rohit Sharma, 37, took over as Team India captain in 2023. Under his leadership, India secured the T20 World Cup title last year and won two Asia Cup trophies. He also boasts an impressive IPL record, having led Mumbai Indians to five championship titles as captain.
