Court directs WFI to resolve notice within 14 days
The Delhi High Court on Monday ordered the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) to make a decision on the show-cause notice issued to Olympic wrestler Vinesh Phogat within two weeks. The court was hearing a petition filed by Phogat challenging the notice, which she received earlier this year.
Justice Prateek Jalan passed the order after noting that the WFI had not yet resolved the matter. The court stated that the federation must conclude the proceedings and communicate its decision to Phogat within 14 days.
Background of the case
The show-cause notice was issued to Phogat in March 2026 over alleged misconduct during the national camp. The notice raised questions about her behavior and compliance with federation rules. Phogat denied the allegations and sought the court's intervention to quash the notice, arguing it was arbitrary and violated natural justice.
Earlier, the court had directed the WFI to allow Phogat to participate in the Asian Games trials, which she did. However, the notice remained pending, prompting her to approach the court again.
Impact on Phogat's career
Phogat, a Commonwealth Games gold medalist, has been at the center of a prolonged dispute with the WFI. She has accused the federation of harassment and bias. The delay in resolving the notice has affected her preparation for upcoming international events.
According to her lawyer, the uncertainty caused by the pending notice has hampered her training schedule. “The unresolved notice creates a cloud over her participation in future competitions,” the lawyer said.
WFI's position
The WFI, represented by senior counsel, argued that the notice was issued after due process and that Phogat was given adequate opportunity to respond. The federation submitted that it would decide the matter expeditiously as per the court's direction.
The court, however, expressed dissatisfaction with the delay and stressed the need for a timely resolution, especially given Phogat's status as a top athlete.
Next steps
The matter is now listed for further hearing after two weeks. The WFI is expected to file its decision before the next date. If the decision is adverse, Phogat may challenge it in court.
The case highlights ongoing tensions between wrestlers and the national federation, which has faced scrutiny over its handling of disciplinary matters.
