New Delhi: Fresh legal developments have emerged in Indian wrestling after the Wrestling Federation of India challenged a recent Delhi High Court decision permitting wrestler Vinesh Phogat to participate in the selection trials for the 2026 Asian Games.
The federation has now moved the Supreme Court against the High Court order, arguing that the decision interferes with its selection process and existing policy framework. The matter is expected to come up for hearing before a bench comprising Justices P S Narasimha and Alok Aradhe.
The dispute began after the Delhi High Court allowed Vinesh Phogat to take part in the trials despite objections linked to the federation’s selection criteria. The court had observed that the existing policy lacked flexibility to accommodate exceptional athletes returning after maternity leave and described the framework as restrictive in nature.
The High Court had also directed the federation to maintain transparency during the trials scheduled for May 30 and 31. As part of the order, the proceedings were to be video recorded, while independent observers from the Sports Authority of India and the Indian Olympic Association were asked to remain present during the process.
The latest move by the WFI has once again placed the spotlight on athlete selection procedures and governance issues within Indian wrestling. The federation is reportedly seeking urgent intervention from the apex court ahead of the scheduled trials.
Vinesh Phogat, one of India’s most recognised wrestlers, has remained in public discussion over the past few years due to both her sporting achievements and her role in protests involving wrestlers and the federation. Her possible return to international competition through the Asian Games has drawn significant attention within the sporting community.
The Supreme Court’s decision on the matter is now expected to play a crucial role in determining whether the wrestler will be able to compete in the upcoming selection process.
