The Delhi High Court on Friday strongly criticized the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) for its decision to declare wrestler Vinesh Phogat 'ineligible' to participate in domestic events. The court directed the central government to constitute an expert committee to review the matter.
Justice Prathiba M. Singh, presiding over the case, questioned the WFI's authority to bar Phogat, a two-time Olympian, from domestic competitions. The court noted that the federation's action appeared arbitrary and lacked proper justification.
The court's order came in response to a petition filed by Phogat challenging the WFI's decision. The wrestler had argued that the federation's move was retaliatory and violated her rights as an athlete.
The central government has been asked to form a committee of experts within two weeks to examine the eligibility criteria and ensure fairness in the selection process for domestic events.
