The Delhi High Court has directed the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) to take a decision within two weeks on the disciplinary show-cause notices issued to wrestler Vinesh Phogat, observing that prolonged uncertainty over disciplinary action could affect an athlete’s mental preparedness ahead of important competitions.
Justice Amit Mahajan passed the direction while hearing a petition filed by Phogat challenging two show-cause notices issued by the wrestling body on May 9 and June 17, 2026.
The Court underscored that athletes must be mentally composed and physically fit before participating in competitive sporting events, noting that anxiety arising from pending disciplinary proceedings should not adversely affect their performance.
The proceedings arose after Phogat expressed apprehension that the WFI could take an adverse decision against her shortly before an upcoming tournament, potentially leaving her with inadequate time to seek judicial intervention.
Senior Advocate Rajshekhar Rao, appearing for Phogat, informed the Court that she intends to participate in a national-level wrestling tournament scheduled around mid-December 2026. He submitted that she needs sufficient time to prepare for the competition and that the unresolved notices were creating uncertainty over her participation.
Counsel argued that the possibility of an adverse decision being taken immediately before the tournament could prejudice Phogat, as she might not have a meaningful opportunity to approach the Court for appropriate relief.
Taking note of the submissions, Justice Mahajan observed that the concerns raised by the wrestler appeared genuine and warranted consideration.
The High Court accordingly directed the WFI authorities to adjudicate the two impugned show-cause notices within a period of two weeks.
The Court further clarified that should the federation fail to take a decision within the stipulated period, any subsequent decision taken on the notices would remain in abeyance until the next date of hearing.
Notice was also issued to the concerned authorities, directing them to place their responses on record before the next hearing.
The matter has been listed for further consideration on January 20, 2027
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