Top Lawyer Harish Salve to Represent IOA in Vinesh Phogat's CAS Appeal

Renowned lawyer Harish Salve will represent the Indian Olympic Association at the Court of Arbitration for Sport in the disqualification case of wrestler Vinesh Phogat from the Paris Olympics. Phogat has announced her retirement following the disqualification, prompting various reactions from sports officials.

Harish Salve, a renowned Indian lawyer, will represent the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) in the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) hearing on Friday, concerning the disqualification of wrestler Vinesh Phogat from the Paris Olympics. Salve's expertise will be pivotal in addressing the legal and procedural aspects of the case.

Salve, who previously served as the Solicitor General of India and is a King's Counsel, confirmed to ANI his engagement by the IOA to represent Phogat at the CAS. The ad hoc hearing is set to begin at 9:00 AM Paris time (12:30 PM IST).

The CAS has established an ad hoc division in Paris, led by President Michael Lenard from the US, to manage cases during the Olympics. This division is housed within the Paris judicial court in the 17th arrondissement. Following her disqualification, Vinesh Phogat announced her retirement from wrestling in an emotional post.

In her announcement on X, Phogat shared her feelings of defeat and gratitude, stating, 'Maa kushti (wrestling) won against me, I lost. Forgive me, your dream and my courage have been broken. I don't have any more strength now. Goodbye Wrestling 2001-2024. I will always be indebted to you all for forgiveness.' Wrestling Federation of India President Sanjay Singh urged Phogat to reconsider her decision.

Speaking to ANI, Singh stated that Phogat's announcement seemed hasty and suggested she should discuss her retirement with her family, the Federation, and other sports officials upon returning to India. He emphasized her significant contributions and performance, indicating that the decision may be premature. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)