SC Allows Vinesh Phogat to Compete in Asian Games Trials
Court refuses to stay Delhi HC order but flags concerns over missed doping test and compliance with global norms
New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India on Friday allowed wrestler Vinesh Phogat to participate in the Asian Games selection trials scheduled for May 30, declining to stay a Delhi High Court order granting her relief.
A Bench of Justices P.S. Narasimha and Alok Aradhe permitted Phogat to compete, citing the imminent trials, while issuing notice on a plea filed by the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) challenging the High Court’s order.
Despite allowing her participation, the court expressed reservations about the High Court’s approach, particularly in treating the issue as one of hardship due to motherhood rather than focusing on compliance with international anti-doping norms.
The Bench noted that Phogat had missed a doping test and failed to provide whereabouts information as required by the International Testing Agency, raising concerns about adherence to global standards.
“You are an excellent wrestler... but it’s the country first,” Justice Narasimha remarked, emphasising that international norms must be followed.
Senior advocate Madhavi Divan, appearing for Phogat, argued that the matter was linked to her recent motherhood and sought permission for her to compete subject to the outcome of the case.
While acknowledging the concerns, the court said it would examine the legal issues later and directed that Phogat be allowed to participate in the trials for now.
