Vinesh Phogat WFI dispute: Sakshi Malik urges PM Modi, Sports Minister Mandavia to intervene

Olympic bronze medallist Sakshi Malik on Tuesday (May 12) backed Vinesh Phogat amid a dispute with the Wrestling Federation of India. The Rio Olympics medallist urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya to intervene as Vinesh battles WFI notice, which is creating a hurdle in her comeback.

Sakshi said moves were being made to keep Vinesh out. Sakshi also said many countries are easing rules. Sakshi said such steps help new mothers return to sport and continue careers.

Vinesh attended the National Open Ranking Tournament in Gonda despite the WFI calling Vinesh ineligible. The WFI issued a long showcause notice to Vinesh. The federation said Vinesh could not compete due to a required six-month notice. The WFI linked the rule to anti-doping requirements.

Wrestling Federation of India notice and Vinesh Phogat comeback

Vinesh, the mother of a 10-month old son, replied to the notice. Vinesh also refused to step back despite the WFI’s firm stand. The dispute centres on the process for returning from retirement. The WFI said the six-month notice is mandatory. Vinesh continued to push for a return through competition.

"I have been asked my views and I was contemplating for the last two-three days as Vinesh is an MLA from a political party and I have nothing to do with any political outfit. But I can give you plenty of examples of countries relaxing norms for their athletes, so that women can continue to play and win medals for the country even after becoming mothers," she said in a video clip on her social media page.

Wrestling Federation of India rules and Sakshi Malik appeal

"But our federation (WFI) has come up with rules to stop Vinesh from making a comeback. I would request the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Sports Minister Mansukh Mandavia and the WFI to take Vineshs trial so that she can also win medals for the country and be an example for women by winning medals after becoming a mother," she added.

Sakshi and Vinesh were close allies during the protest over alleged sexual harassment. The protest targeted WFI’s then President Brij Bhushan Singh Sharan. Sakshi later parted ways after Vinesh joined the Congress party. Sakshi’s remarks on Tuesday came despite that political split and past differences.

Vinesh had earlier retired after a major setback at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Vinesh was disqualified from the final for being 100gm over the weight limit. After that, the Haryana wrestler entered politics. Vinesh was elected the same year from the Julana constituency.