New Delhi
Olympic bronze medallist Sakshi Malik has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) to permit Vinesh Phogat to participate in the selection trials for this year’s Asian Games.
Vinesh, who was attempting to return to competitive wrestling after nearly two years away from the sport, recently received a detailed show-cause notice from the WFI accusing her of indiscipline and violations related to anti-doping procedures. The federation also declared her ineligible to participate in domestic competitions until June 26.
According to the WFI, the 31-year-old wrestler failed to comply with the mandatory six-month notice period required for athletes returning from retirement under United World Wrestling anti-doping regulations.
As a result, Vinesh was unable to compete in the National Open Ranking event in Gonda, which serves as a qualifying trial for the Asian Games 2026.
Speaking through a video message posted on social media platform X, Sakshi criticised the timing of the federation’s decision and argued that rules should support athletes attempting comebacks rather than prevent them from competing.
“I can give many such examples where sports federations of other countries make rules easier for their players,” Sakshi said.
“So that even after becoming a mother, women can play for the country and win medals. Whereas our federation implements such rules two days before so that Vinesh cannot make a comeback,” she added.
Sakshi urged authorities to reconsider the decision and conduct trials for Vinesh, insisting that experienced athletes like her continue to have the potential to win medals for India.
“I request the honourable Prime Minister, the honourable Sports Minister and the Wrestling Federation to take the trials for Vinesh so that she can also win medals for the country and make the country proud,” Sakshi said.
The issue has sparked fresh debate within Indian wrestling circles regarding athlete welfare, comeback regulations and opportunities for women athletes returning to competition after long breaks or motherhood.
Vinesh, a two-time World Championship medallist and one of India’s most accomplished wrestlers, had been targeting the Asian Games as a major step in reviving her international career.