Delhi High Court allows wrestler Vinesh Phogat to compete in Asian Games selection trials
PTC Web Desk: In a major relief for Haryana Congress MLA and wrestler Vinesh Phogat, the Delhi High Court has allowed her to participate in the selection trials for the upcoming Asian Games.
Hearing Vinesh Phogat’s plea against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), the court observed that allowing her to compete was necessary in the interest of both sports and justice. The High Court also remarked that the federation’s selection policy appeared discriminatory.
To ensure transparency in the process, the court directed the WFI to video-record the trials. It further ordered that two observers from the Sports Authority of India (SAI) remain present during the selection process.
The decision comes a day after the Delhi High Court strongly criticised the WFI for preventing Vinesh Phogat from participating in domestic competitions. During the earlier hearing, the court questioned why exceptions had earlier been granted to renowned athletes while she was being treated differently.
The court had also suggested the formation of an expert panel and observed that Vinesh Phogat, who is returning to competitive wrestling after maternity leave, should be given an opportunity to compete in the Asian Games trials.
The Wrestling Federation of India had declared Vinesh Phogat ineligible to participate in domestic events until June 26, 2026, citing anti-doping regulations. Challenging the decision, the wrestler approached the Delhi High Court seeking relief.
- With inputs from agencies
