Today(9th August), Harish Salve will represent the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) in the CAS hearing regarding wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification from the Paris Olympics. His expertise will be crucial in addressing the legal and procedural aspects of the case.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
NEW DELHI: Harish Salve, one of India’s most distinguished lawyers, has been appointed by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to represent them in the upcoming Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) hearing. This hearing, scheduled for today(9th August), is a pivotal moment in the ongoing dispute surrounding the disqualification of celebrated wrestler Vinesh Phogat from the Paris Olympics.
Salve, who has previously served as the Solicitor General of India and is now a King’s Counsel, confirmed his engagement by the IOA. His involvement is seen as a critical move, given his extensive experience in handling complex legal and procedural issues on both national and international stages.
The Importance of the CAS Hearing
The CAS hearing is set to commence at 9:00 AM Paris time (12:30 PM IST) Today(9th August). The case is part of a special ad hoc division established by the CAS in Paris to address disputes arising during the Olympics. This division, led by President Michael Lenard from the United States, is strategically located within the Paris judicial court in the 17th arrondissement, ensuring that all cases are dealt with promptly and efficiently during the Olympic Games.
Vinesh Phogat’s Disqualification and Emotional Retirement Announcement
The backdrop to this legal battle is the recent disqualification of Vinesh Phogat from the Paris Olympics. Following the disqualification, Phogat, a wrestler who has been a prominent figure in Indian sports, made a surprising and emotional announcement of her retirement from wrestling. This announcement was made public on Thursday(8th August), through a heartfelt post on the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter).
In her post, Phogat expressed a deep sense of loss and defeat, capturing the emotional toll the situation has taken on her. She wrote-
“Maa kushti (wrestling) won against me,I have lost. Forgive me for shattering your dreams and my own courage. I no longer have the strength to continue. Farewell, Wrestling 2001-2024. I will forever be grateful for your understanding and support.”
This statement resonated with her fans and the broader sports community, highlighting the personal and professional challenges she has faced.
Calls for Phogat to Reconsider Retirement
In response to Phogat’s sudden retirement announcement, Sanjay Singh, the President of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), urged her to reconsider her decision. Singh emphasized that Phogat’s decision seemed to be made in haste, likely influenced by the emotional strain of recent events. He suggested that Phogat should have a comprehensive discussion about her future in wrestling with her family, the Federation, and other key sports officials once she returns to India.
Singh also highlighted Phogat’s significant contributions to the sport, noting that her performance and dedication have been invaluable to Indian wrestling. He indicated that making such a life-altering decision in the heat of the moment might not be the best course of action.
“Phogat’s announcement appears to be premature; she should discuss her retirement with her family, the Federation, and other sports officials upon her return to India.”
-Singh stated.
As the CAS hearing approaches, all eyes are on Harish Salve and the arguments he will present on behalf of the IOA. The outcome of this hearing could have far-reaching implications not only for Vinesh Phogat’s future but also for the integrity of the Indian wrestling community and its representation on the global stage.
Phogat’s retirement, if it stands, marks the end of an era for Indian wrestling, a sport in which she has played a pivotal role for over two decades. However, with influential voices urging her to reconsider, there remains a possibility that Phogat might return to the sport, depending on the outcome of the CAS hearing and subsequent discussions.
This case highlights the intense pressures athletes face, especially during events as significant as the Olympics, and the crucial role that legal experts like Harish Salve play in navigating the complex landscape of international sports disputes.