Delhi High Court has refused to involve itself in the controversy over wrestler Sushil Kumar being denied the chance to make the Indian wrestling team for the Rio Games. Justice Manmohan said the Wrestling Federation of India and Kumar must display "sportsman spirit" and directed the WFI to call Kumar, and hear his concerns.
The bench said, "This person has done many things in the past. You (WFI) do not discredit him. You call him, talk to him and then decide. He should be a respected member of the federation. He has won medals. You explain everything to him and as a good sportsman, he will hear you. Keep his dignity and respect and try to sort it out." The observation came after Sushil's counsel pressed for a direction. The HC declined to issue interim orders saying, "We cannot do this at this stage. Indian cause has to be placed on a higher pedestal. WFI is pointing out relevant facts. They are the people who are experts, they will have to take the decision. I will only interfere as a last resort."
The issue arose after Kumar's dreams of competing at the Olympics was dampened with the Federation not keen on conducting a trial in the contentious men's 74kg category, saying it would set a wrong precedent and might "finish Indian wrestling". The WFI has instead, expressed interest in sending quota winner Narsingh Pancham Yadav.
Taking a diplomatic stand, the bench said, "Court can interfere as a last resort, that too if there is something malafide or perverse. I don't see any perversity in the selection of the gentleman who has won the berth. Without him competing on that day you wouldn't have a berth. You cannot deny the fact that one of them has given India a place in the Olympics." Asking WFI to grant a hearing to Sushil, Justice Manmohan told Sushil, who was present in court, that both he and Yadav are equally placed. "WFI are the experts. Let them decide first. Court can't interefere like this."
