Supreme Court Allows Vinesh Phogat to Participate in Asian Games Trials

The Supreme Court of India on Friday paved the way for wrestler Vinesh Phogat to compete in upcoming Asian Games selection trials, scheduled for May 30. The court allowed the participant after a bench of Justices P.S. Narasimha and Alok Aradhe weighed arguments from her legal team against those presented by the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI).

Despite permitting Phogat's participation, the judges expressed concerns over the approach taken by the Delhi High Court in granting relief, particularly focusing on compliance with international anti-doping standards. Phogat had missed a doping test and failed to report her whereabouts information as required by the International Testing Agency (ITA).

"You are an excellent wrestler... but it's the country first," Justice Narasimha remarked, emphasizing adherence to global norms. The Bench noted that Phogat's recent motherhood did not override these standards.

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Phogat's legal advisor, Madhavi Divan, argued for a more holistic consideration of the situation, highlighting that Phogat's recent motherhood warranted special treatment. Although acknowledging these issues, the court directed that the matter would be thoroughly examined later and deemed it appropriate to permit her participation at present.

The decision comes amidst heightened scrutiny over international compliance in the sports world, with India aiming to uphold high standards during regional and global competitions.