Vinesh Phogat challenges WFI disciplinary actions and seeks maternity safeguards

Olympian Vinesh Phogat has filed a petition in the Delhi High Court challenging disciplinary actions taken by the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and seeking maternity safeguards for female athletes.

Phogat is contesting two show-cause notices issued by the WFI, alleging they are arbitrary, discriminatory, and part of a mala fide exercise of power. The notices involve allegations of indiscipline, anti-doping regulations, and conduct during the 2026 Asian Games selection trials. Her legal team has also questioned the transparency and constitution of the federation's disciplinary committee.

Beyond the disciplinary challenge, Phogat is seeking a fair and transparent framework to protect women wrestlers returning to competition after pregnancy and childbirth. She argues that current selection criteria, which focus on performances during periods of maternity-related absence, create a structural disadvantage for female athletes. She is calling for a structured mechanism that provides reasonable accommodation for athletes to re-enter competitive pathways on fair terms.

The Delhi High Court has sought responses from the WFI, the Indian Olympic Association, and the Centre regarding the petition.