The Delhi High Court has directed the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) to decide two show-cause notices issued to wrestler Vinesh Phogat within two weeks. Justice Amit Mahajan passed the order on October 29, 2026, after Phogat expressed concern that a decision against her shortly before an upcoming tournament could leave her without an effective opportunity to seek relief.
Background
Phogat approached the High Court challenging show-cause notices dated May 9 and June 17, 2026, along with related proceedings and communications. She sought to have the notices quashed, alleging that the disciplinary proceedings were arbitrary and influenced by extraneous considerations.
Her counsel submitted that a national tournament in which she wished to participate was scheduled for mid-December 2026. The pending notices, the counsel argued, created uncertainty while she needed to prepare for the competition.
The Court recorded that no final order had been passed on the notices and that there was no current impediment to her participation in upcoming tournaments.
Justice Mahajan acknowledged the concern raised regarding the timing of a possible disciplinary decision and its effect on an athlete preparing for competition.
The Court observed:
"A Sportsperson has to be in a fit and relaxed state of mind to participate in any competitive event of such nature as indicated so that their performance is not compromised in any way."
Considering the circumstances, the Court directed the respondents to make a decision within a fixed period rather than leave the notices pending indefinitely.
The High Court directed the respondents to decide the two challenged show-cause notices within two weeks. It further ordered that if a decision was taken after that period, it would remain in abeyance until the next hearing.
The matter has been listed for January 20, 2027. The Court has not yet delivered a final ruling on Phogat's challenge to the notices.
