Delhi High Court Orders Quick Decision on Vinesh Phogat's Show-Cause Notice

The Delhi High Court has mandated that the Wrestling Federation of India resolve the show-cause notice against wrestler Vinesh Phogat within two weeks. This notice stems from allegations of indiscipline and anti-doping rule violations. The court concluded proceedings on Phogat's petition, which challenged the WFI's selection policy. Despite her senior counsel's claims of broader issues, the court indicated that Phogat would need to file a new petition. The case highlights ongoing controversies surrounding athlete eligibility and selection criteria in Indian wrestling.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 6, 2026, 14:50 IST

Court Directs Wrestling Federation to Act Promptly

New Delhi: The Delhi High Court has instructed the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) to resolve the show-cause notice issued to wrestler Vinesh Phogat within a two-week timeframe. This notice pertains to allegations of misconduct and violations of anti-doping regulations.

Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma concluded the hearing on Phogat's petition, which contested both the show-cause notice and the WFI's selection criteria. The federation's attorney indicated that Phogat's concerns regarding her participation in the Asian Games selection trials had become irrelevant.

The judge mandated, "Decide the show-cause notice dated May 9 within two weeks, informing both the petitioner and the court."

The WFI's counsel assured that Phogat would receive a personal hearing before any final decision is made regarding the notice.

Despite Phogat's senior lawyer claiming that the petition raised broader issues about the selection policy, the court stated that she would need to submit a new petition.

"This matter can be resolved, and then you may file a new writ petition," the court remarked.

It was noted in court that, following judicial directives, Phogat was allowed to take part in the Asian Games trials.

Phogat's senior counsel also mentioned that she had received a new show-cause notice concerning her behavior during the trials.

On May 9, the WFI had issued a notice declaring Phogat ineligible for domestic competitions until June 26, 2026, due to a mandatory six-month notice period associated with athletes returning from retirement under anti-doping regulations.

In her petition, Phogat challenged the WFI's selection policy, which restricted eligibility for the Asian Games trials to medalists from specific tournaments.

Phogat argued that the WFI's chosen "qualification window" significantly overlapped with her officially recognized sabbatical for pregnancy and postpartum recovery, creating a "closed and inflexible gatekeeping mechanism" that was evidently arbitrary and discriminatory.