Ananya Lohia , Delhi - Vinesh Phogat has been allowed to compete in the women’s 53kg category at the Asian Games 2026 selection trials after a controversy with the Wrestling Federation of India. The wrestler had accused the federation of discrimination after initially being restricted to the 50kg division during the official weigh-in in New Delhi.

The dispute began on Saturday morning at the Indira Gandhi Stadium when Vinesh was informed she could only participate in the 50kg category as she had competed in that division in her last four international events, including the Paris Olympics. She challenged the decision, following which WFI allowed her to compete in the 53kg trials. WFI president Sanjay Singh said the federation did not want to discriminate against anyone and allowed Vinesh after she objected to the decision. In an official statement, WFI confirmed that all eligible wrestlers, including Vinesh, completed the weigh-in formalities and were cleared for the trials. Earlier, the Supreme Court of India granted interim relief to Vinesh while seeking her response to WFI’s petition against her participation. The matter will next be heard on June 1. The Delhi High Court had previously directed the federation to allow her participation and ordered the trials to be video recorded under independent supervision.

Despite the legal and administrative tussle, Vinesh Phogat has now secured the chance to compete for a spot in India’s Asian Games squad in the 53kg category, keeping her hopes alive ahead of the crucial selection trials.