Delhi HC gives two weeks to WFI to decide on notice to Vinesh Phogat
Wrestler Vinesh Phogat. File | Photo credit: PTI
The Delhi High Court on Monday (Jul 6, 2026) asked the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) to take a decision within two weeks on the show-cause notice issued to grappler Vinesh Phogat on charges of indiscipline and anti-doping violations.
Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma closed the proceedings on Ms Phogat’s petition challenging the show cause notice as well as the WFI’s selection policy and circular after the Federation’s counsel said her complaint regarding participation in the Asian Games selection process was now without merit.
Counsel for WFI said Ms Phogat would have a personal hearing before a decision on the notification was taken.
Although Ms Phogat’s counsel argued that the petition raised “bigger issues” with regard to the selection policy, the court said the athlete would have to file a fresh application.
The court was informed that on the basis of court orders, Ms. Phogat was allowed to participate in trials at the Asian Games.
New show-cause announcement
Appellant’s lead counsel informed the court that she had received a new notice regarding her conduct at trial.
On 9 May, the WFI served Ms Phogat with a show cause notice and declared her ineligible to compete in domestic events until 26 June 2026, citing the mandatory six-month notice period associated with athletes returning from retirement under anti-doping rules.
Ms. Phogat questioned the selection policy of WFI and the circular.
On May 18, a single judge bench allowed Ms Phogat to file a “comprehensive reply” to the show cause notice. However, it refused to give her any relief on the issue of her participation in the Asian Games trials.
Later, on 22 May, the division bench agreed to her participation in the trials for the Asian Games held on 30-31 May.
On May 29, the Supreme Court refused to interfere with the director and allowed her to play.
Ms Phogat was knocked out of the Asian Games selection trials after losing to Meenakshi Goyat 4-6 in the women’s 53kg semi-final bout.
Published – 06 Jul 2026 15:16 IST