New Delhi, May 29: Indian wrestler Vinish Phogat has received significant relief from the Supreme Court. The country’s highest court has granted her permission to participate in the selection trials for the Asian Games. These trials are scheduled for May 30 and 31.
The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) challenged a Delhi High Court order in the Supreme Court, which allowed Vinish to take part in the Asian Games 2026 selection trials. The High Court had also reprimanded the WFI for failing to send Vinish a notice.
The court ordered that the selection trials on May 30-31 be video recorded by the WFI, with one independent observer each from the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) present. The High Court emphasized the importance of respecting motherhood in the country, noting that the WFI’s outdated selection criteria speak volumes.
It is important to mention that the WFI had issued a ‘show cause notice’ to Vinish, asking her to respond to four questions. The WFI accused her of indiscipline and violating anti-doping regulations. They had imposed a ban on her participation in any domestic competition until June 26, 2026.
Due to this decision, Vinish was unable to compete in the National Open Ranking Tournament. She had approached the WFI seeking permission to participate in the trials, but her appeal was denied. The WFI stated that disciplinary action against Vinish is ongoing under WADA rule 5.6.1, which prevents her from participating in the trials.
According to the WFI, this rule requires athletes returning from retirement to complete a notice period of at least six months before competing in any tournament. Following the WFI’s decision, Vinish approached the High Court seeking intervention in the matter.
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