Law

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has entered a formal dispute with the Wrestling Federation of India after being barred from competition despite claiming clearance from global anti-doping authorities. Phogat has stated that both the International Testing Agency and the World Anti-Doping Agency have approved her return to competitive wrestling from January 1, 2026. However, the WFI has ruled her ineligible under WADA Rule 5.6.1, which governs the reinstatement of retired athletes.

Vinesh Phogat has been issued a formal notice by the International Testing Agency after missing an out-of-competition doping test on December 18, 2025. The lapse constitutes her first “whereabouts failure” within a 12-month window, a procedural breach rather than a direct doping violation. While the immediate consequences are limited, the development underscores the strict compliance framework governing elite athletes.

The Delhi High Court has initiated judicial scrutiny into a dispute over the recognition of the Indian Pickleball Association as India’s national governing body for pickleball. Acting on a legal petition, the court has requested the central government’s response to allegations of procedural non-compliance in granting official status. The case underscores rising concerns about transparency and governance standards in India’s expanding sports ecosystem.

Former Indian cricketer and political leader Gautam Gambhir has approached the Delhi High Court seeking legal intervention after discovering manipulated deepfake content circulating online using his identity. The petition underscores growing concerns over artificial intelligence–generated media and its potential to spread misinformation or harm personal reputations. Gambhir’s legal action calls for the removal of fabricated content and accountability for those responsible.