Court Dismisses Petition Challenging WFI Elections for Non-Prosecution

On November 27, 2025, the Delhi High Court dismissed a petition challenging the Wrestling Federation of India’s (WFI) elections, citing repeated non-appearance by the petitioners.[1]

The petition, filed last year by top wrestlers Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat, and Satyawart Kadian, sought directions to set aside and declare the WFI’s December 2023 elections as illegal and void ab initio, alleging violations of the Sports Code.

Several significant developments have taken place since the filing of the petition. Most notably, in March this year, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports lifted the suspension imposed on the WFI and restored its recognition as the National Sports Federation.

In view of the petitioners’ failure to appear before the Court on multiple occasions, the High Court dismissed the matter in default and for non-prosecution.

[1] Bajrang Punia and Ors. v. Union of India and Ors. [WP(C) 3164/2024]