Delhi High Court Permits Vinesh Phogat to Compete in Asian Games Trials Amid Controversy
Delhi HC allows Vinesh Phogat to compete in Asian Games trials; calls WFI action `vindictive`
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The Delhi High Court has ruled in favor of wrestler Vinesh Phogat, allowing her to participate in the selection trials for the 2026 Asian Games. The court criticized the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) for its exclusionary policies and described its actions as vindictive, particularly in light of Phogat's maternity leave and past controversies.
- 01The Delhi High Court's decision came on May 22, emphasizing that motherhood should not disqualify female athletes from competition.
- 02The court condemned the WFI's show-cause notice to Phogat as 'deplorable' and indicative of mala fide intent.
- 03Phogat had previously been barred from trials due to not competing in select events while on maternity leave.
- 04The WFI accused Phogat of indiscipline and anti-doping violations, which she strongly denied.
- 05The court questioned the Central government's inaction regarding the WFI's treatment of Phogat and its policies.
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The Delhi High Court has granted wrestler Vinesh Phogat permission to compete in the selection trials for the 2026 Asian Games, scheduled for May 30. In a ruling delivered on May 22, the court criticized the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) for its exclusionary policies that barred Phogat from participating due to her maternity leave. The court highlighted the physical challenges female athletes face during and after pregnancy, asserting that motherhood should not lead to marginalization in sports. Furthermore, the court condemned a show-cause notice issued by the WFI, labeling it as 'vindictive' and reflecting mala fide intent. This notice had described Phogat's disqualification from the Paris Olympics due to being overweight as a national shame. The court's ruling came in response to Phogat's appeal against a previous decision that denied her relief. The WFI had cited her lack of participation in specific competitions as grounds for her exclusion, while Phogat argued that she had been cleared to compete by international anti-doping bodies. The court's observations also raised concerns about the Central government's failure to address the WFI's actions.
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This ruling could empower female athletes facing similar challenges and encourage more inclusive policies within sports organizations.
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