Delhi High Court Criticises WFI Over Vinesh Phogat Trials Ban, Orders Panel Formation
Delhi HC criticises WFI over Vinesh Phogat trials ban and orders Centre panel.
The Delhi High Court on Friday directed the Centre to constitute an expert committee to examine wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s case and ensure her eligibility for selection trials for the 2026 Asian Games, while also criticising the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) over its decision to bar her from domestic competition.
The court raised concerns over the ongoing administrative dispute within the WFI and questioned why such internal conflicts should affect the sport and its athletes. During the hearing, the bench observed that wrestling as a discipline should not suffer due to organisational disagreements, according to a PTI report. The court’s remarks came while hearing Phogat’s petition challenging her exclusion from key selection events.
The controversy stems from a WFI notice that declared Phogat “ineligible” to participate in domestic tournaments, including the National Open Ranking event, until June 26. The federation’s selection policy, issued earlier this year, restricted Asian Games trials eligibility to medal winners from specific national and age-group championships, while excluding consideration of past performances.
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The WFI also accused Phogat of indiscipline and alleged violations related to anti-doping rules, stating that she had not completed the mandatory six-month notice period required for athletes returning from retirement under international regulations. The federation’s actions formed the basis of its decision to keep her out of competition, triggering legal intervention.
The court, however, noted that Phogat had been on maternity leave and stressed the need to balance regulatory compliance with the broader interests of Indian wrestling. It permitted her to submit a detailed response to the federation’s notice and directed WFI to take a final decision before the next hearing scheduled for July 6. Notices were also issued to the Centre, WFI, and the Indian Olympic Association, as the court continues to examine the matter alongside Phogat’s broader allegations linked to past protests against former WFI leadership.
