Delhi High Court Denies Immediate Relief to Vinesh Phogat Amidst Eligibility Controversy

The Delhi High Court declined to grant immediate relief to wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who sought participation in the Asian Games selection trials after being declared ineligible by the WFI. The court allowed Phogat to respond to a show-cause notice, directing the WFI to conclude the matter by July 6.

The Delhi High Court on Monday refrained from granting immediate relief to wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who petitioned for permission to participate in the upcoming Asian Games selection trials. The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) had previously deemed her ineligible for participation in its events until June 26.

Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav allowed Phogat to submit a comprehensive response to a WFI-issued show-cause notice linked to accusations of indiscipline and anti-doping rule violations. The court instructed the WFI to reach a conclusion by July 6 and present its decision.

Phogat's legal representative argued for her inclusion in the trials, citing international practices that protect the status of female athletes on maternity leave. However, the court emphasized the need to balance competing interests and required Phogat to adhere to the procedural process.