The ongoing saga surrounding Indian wrestling has taken a new turn as the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has filed a petition with the Supreme Court, challenging a ruling by the Delhi High Court. This ruling had previously granted wrestler Vinesh Phogat the right to participate in the selection trials for the 2026 Asian Games. The Supreme Court is expected to hear this case on Friday, adding another layer of complexity to an already heated situation.

On May 22, the Delhi High Court made a landmark decision, allowing Phogat to compete in the upcoming trials. The bench pointed out that the WFI’s selection policy was inherently exclusionary, particularly disadvantaging athletes like Phogat who are returning from maternity leave. The court emphasized that no woman should face disadvantages due to taking time off for maternity, thus reasserting the importance of inclusivity in sports.

The High Court also mandated that the selection trials, slated for May 30 and May 31, be thoroughly documented via video recording. In addition, it required the presence of independent observers from both the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) during the trials to ensure transparency. This directive was issued by a division bench comprised of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia, further solidifying the court’s commitment to fair and equitable treatment of all athletes.

Vinesh Phogat, a prominent figure in Indian wrestling, had initially sought relief from a single-judge bench, which denied her request. Following this setback, she turned to the division bench, ultimately winning the right to compete. Phogat is not just any athlete; she has been a vocal advocate for change within the sport, having participated in protests demanding the resignation of former WFI chief and Bharatiya Janata Party leader, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, amid allegations of sexual harassment.

This case highlights a critical intersection between sports, gender equality, and legal rights in India. It reflects a growing awareness and push against outdated policies that do not account for the realities faced by female athletes. As the Supreme Court prepares to take up the WFI’s appeal, the outcome could set a significant precedent for how sports organizations in India handle issues related to maternity leave and the inclusion of returning athletes.