Delhi High Court Demands Inclusion of Vinesh Phogat in Wrestling Trials
'Wrestler Of International Repute': Delhi HC Slams WFI, Asks Center To Ensure Vinesh Phogat's Participation
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The Delhi High Court has criticized the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) for barring renowned wrestler Vinesh Phogat from domestic competitions. The court has directed the Indian government to form an expert panel to assess her eligibility for the upcoming Asian Games selection trials, emphasizing the need to support athletes returning from maternity leave.
- 01The Delhi High Court questioned the WFI's decision to declare Vinesh Phogat ineligible for domestic trials, citing inconsistencies with past practices.
- 02Phogat, who took a maternity break, is seeking to return to competitive wrestling and participated in a National Open Ranking Tournament despite WFI restrictions.
- 03The court noted that motherhood should not negatively impact an athlete's career, highlighting Phogat's status as a celebrated sports figure.
- 04Government counsel indicated that the Sports Authority of India allows flexibility in eligibility criteria for deserving athletes.
- 05Phogat's legal team argued that the WFI's actions were aimed at excluding her from competition, referencing a controversial notice issued just before her participation in a domestic event.
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The Delhi High Court has taken a strong stance against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) for its decision to bar Vinesh Phogat, a prominent wrestler, from domestic competitions. The court, led by Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia, questioned the rationale behind the WFI's actions, especially given Phogat's significant contributions to Indian wrestling and her recent return from maternity leave. The judges expressed concern that the federation's decision deviated from its previous policies that accommodated established athletes. The court emphasized that motherhood should not hinder an athlete's career, stating, 'Whatever may be the feud or dispute, why should the cause of sports suffer?' They directed the Indian government to form an expert panel to evaluate Phogat's eligibility for the upcoming Asian Games selection trials. Phogat, who faced disqualification at the Paris Olympics for being overweight, has been a vocal advocate for women's rights in sports, having participated in protests against alleged harassment by the former WFI chief. The court's intervention aims to ensure that she is not unfairly excluded from competition as she seeks to reclaim her place in wrestling.
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This ruling could significantly influence the careers of athletes returning from maternity leave, ensuring they are not unfairly penalized.
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