Harish Salve Steps in to Help Vinesh Phogat at CAS Hearing

In a significant turn of events, senior advocate Harish Salve has been enlisted to represent the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) at a crucial hearing before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) concerning the recent disqualification of star wrestler Vinesh Phogat from the Paris Olympics.

Vinesh’s case has stirred emotions across the country, especially after she announced her retirement from wrestling just a day before the hearing. In an emotional post on social media, she conveyed her defeat and her gratitude for the sport, stating, “Maa kushti (wrestling) won against me, I lost.” She expressed a deep sense of loss, saying her courage has been broken, and thanked everyone who supported her throughout her career.

Harish Salve’s involvement in this case is seen as a ray of hope for Vinesh and her supporters. He brings a wealth of experience to the table, having represented numerous high-profile cases over the years. On Thursday, Vinesh made two appeals regarding her disqualification. CAS rejected her first plea to compete in the final bout but accepted her second request for a joint silver medal with Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzman Lopez.

Salve, a former Solicitor General of India and a well-known legal figure, has taken on various important cases in the past. His track record includes representing major corporations and even the government in complex cases. This reputation adds an extra layer of confidence for Vinesh as she prepares to fight for her rights.

The hearing at CAS is set for Friday afternoon, and it is seen as a final chance for Vinesh to seek justice in what has been a tumultuous journey in her sporting career. As the fans and supporters rally behind her, all eyes will be on the outcome of this significant legal battle.