The hearing in Vinesh Phogat's case for the Paris Olympics 2024 was concluded on August 9 (Friday). Now, the entire nation awaits the decision. Initially, the decision was expected on August 10 (Saturday), but the timeline has been extended. Whether Vinesh gets the silver medal or not will be decided by August 13, which is a Tuesday, by 9:30 AM Indian Standard Time. A detailed order will also be issued.
Australian Judge to Announce the Verdict
Dr. Annabelle Bennett AC SC will deliver the verdict in this case. Initially, the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) had set 9:30 PM on August 10 as the deadline for the decision. Typically, an ad hoc panel is given 24 hours to announce a decision. However, the date has been extended.
Vinesh Phogat appealed to CAS on Wednesday against her disqualification from the Olympic final, requesting that she be awarded the joint silver medal. CAS's ad hoc division was set up to resolve disputes arising during the 10-day period leading up to the Olympic Games or the opening ceremony.
Source: aajtak
Vinesh Phogat's uncle, Mahavir Phogat, gave a statement on the delay. Mahavir said, 'We’ve been waiting for two days. I am grateful to the Indian government for appointing good lawyers. I hope for good news. We missed out on gold, but people are praying that she gets the silver medal. All family members are asking Vinesh to change her decision. We will happily accept whatever decision comes. I believe the delay is a good sign for us. The government is trying hard for the silver medal, and I am grateful to them.'
Role of CAS
The Court of Arbitration for Sport is an independent institution established to handle all legal disputes related to sports. Founded in 1984, this international body resolves sports disputes through arbitration. Its headquarters are in Lausanne, Switzerland, with courts in New York City, Sydney, and Lausanne. Temporary courts are also set up in current Olympic host cities.
All parties were given the opportunity to submit detailed legal arguments and then present their oral arguments before the hearing. The sole arbitrator indicated that the operational part of the order is expected soon, followed by a detailed order and reasons. IOA President Dr. PT Usha expressed gratitude to senior advocate Harish Salve and Vidushpat Singhania, as well as the entire Sports Legal Team for their assistance in presenting arguments on behalf of the IOA.
Arguments Presented by Vinesh
1. Vinesh argued that she did not engage in any fraud.
2. Her weight gain was due to the body's natural recovery process.
3. It was argued that taking care of her body is a fundamental right of the athlete.
4. Vinesh also argued that her weight was within the limit on the first day of the competition. The weight gain was only a result of recovery, and it is not a case of fraud. Ensuring the body gets the required nutrients for recovery is a fundamental right.
India's hopes for the Paris Olympics were dealt a blow when Vinesh Phogat was disqualified. In the 50 kg freestyle wrestling category, she was found to be over the weight limit by about 100 grams. Vinesh had the chance to win a gold medal, but due to the weight issue, she was disqualified just a few hours before the final match. Thus, even after winning the semifinal, she missed the medal due to the rules.
