LI Network
Published on: 23 July 2023 at 12:05 IST
The Delhi High Court ruled against interfering with the decision to grant top wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia exemption from participating in the Asian Games trials. Justice Subramonium Prasad dismissed the petition filed by Under-20 World Champion Antim Panghal and Under-23 Asian Champion Sujeet Kalkal, who contested the direct entry given to Phogat and Punia for the tournament.
The Indian Olympic Association’s ad-hoc committee announced on Tuesday that Vinesh Phogat (53kg) and Bajrang Punia (65kg) would be granted direct entry into the Asian Games, while other wrestlers would need to secure their spots in the Indian squad through selection trials scheduled for July 22 and 23.
Antim Panghal and Sujeet Kalkal moved to the high court on July 19, challenging the exemption granted to Phogat and Punia, and advocating for a fair selection process for the prestigious quadrennial event. Their petition, represented by advocates Hrishikesh Baruah and Akshay Kumar, sought to have the directive issued by the IOA ad-hoc committee, specifically for the men’s freestyle 65kg and women’s 53kg categories, nullified and the exemption given to Phogat and Punia revoked.
Justice Subramonium Prasad’s verdict to dismiss the writ petition means that Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia will maintain their direct entry status for the Asian Games. A more comprehensive explanation of the court’s decision is yet to be released.
The Asian Games, being a prestigious multi-sport event, are closely followed by sports enthusiasts across the globe. The participation of top athletes like Phogat and Punia, who have excelled in their respective weight categories, adds to the excitement and expectations surrounding the upcoming competition.
