Delhi High Court Orders Wrestling Federation to Resolve Vinesh Phogat's Show-Cause Notices

The Delhi High Court has mandated the Wrestling Federation of India to resolve two show-cause notices issued to wrestler Vinesh Phogat within two weeks. This ruling comes as Phogat seeks to participate in upcoming competitions, emphasizing the need for athletes to be in a mentally relaxed state for optimal performance. The court's decision to suspend the notices until the next hearing on January 20, 2027, highlights the ongoing legal challenges Phogat faces, including allegations of indiscipline and anti-doping violations. Her petition argues that these actions are part of a broader pattern obstructing her return to competitive wrestling after maternity leave. The outcome of this case could significantly impact her eligibility for future tournaments.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 30, 2026, 13:32 IST

Court Directs WFI on Phogat's Case

New Delhi: The Delhi High Court has instructed the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) to address two show-cause notices issued to wrestler Vinesh Phogat within a fortnight.

Justice Amit Mahajan, in a ruling delivered on October 29 regarding Phogat's petition, emphasized that athletes must be in a mentally relaxed state to compete effectively. He noted that the decisions concerning the notices dated May 9 and June 17 would be suspended until the next hearing scheduled for January 20.

Phogat's attorney pointed out that no final ruling had been made on the two notices.

He expressed concerns that while there were no current restrictions on her participation in upcoming events, any negative ruling before future competitions could leave her without recourse.

Justice Mahajan acknowledged the legitimacy of these concerns, stating, "An athlete must be in a fit and relaxed mental state to engage in competitive events to ensure their performance is not hindered."

The court mandated that the WFI must make a decision regarding the contested show-cause notices within two weeks. Should a decision be made after this period, it will remain suspended until the next hearing date. The court has set the next hearing for January 20, 2027.

Phogat's lawyer mentioned her intention to compete in a national tournament slated for mid-December, highlighting that the show-cause notices were a significant concern for her.

The court was reviewing Phogat's petition aimed at nullifying the two show-cause notices issued by the WFI, which were based on allegations of misconduct and breaches of anti-doping regulations, alongside disciplinary actions initiated against her.

The court has also issued a notice to the WFI and the central government regarding this petition.

In her plea, Phogat argued that the notices from May 9 and June 17 are part of a broader pattern of arbitrary and malicious actions by the WFI, hindering her return to competitive wrestling following her maternity leave.

The petition contends that despite being cleared to compete by the International Testing Agency starting January 1, 2026, the WFI implemented an eligibility framework that effectively barred her from the selection process and promptly issued the first show-cause notice citing anti-doping and whereabouts violations.

The ongoing show-cause notices and related proceedings pose a continuous barrier to her return to elite competition and could adversely affect her eligibility, nomination, and participation in upcoming events.