The Delhi High Court on Friday allowed wrestler Vinesh Phogat to participate in the selection trials for the Asian Games 2026, stating that the decision was necessary in the interest of sports and justice. The court directed the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) to ensure that the trials are video-recorded and that independent observers from the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) remain present throughout the process.
Court Questions WFI Policies
The bench observed that WFI policies unfairly excluded athletes returning after maternity leave, calling this a discriminatory practice. It also questioned the show-cause notice issued by the federation against Phogat, noting that such actions could deter athletes from pursuing their careers after childbirth.
Background of the Case
Vinesh Phogat, a prominent Indian wrestler, had earlier faced disqualification at the Olympics due to a weight issue. She approached the Delhi High Court after being barred from the Asian Games 2026 selection trials. The court's interim order allows her to compete while the case is pending further hearing.
The court emphasized that the selection process must be transparent and fair, with proper documentation to avoid any disputes. It also directed WFI to submit a compliance report after the trials.
Phogat's legal team argued that the federation's policies violated her fundamental rights as an athlete and a mother. The court agreed that maternity should not be a barrier to participation in sports.
