India, Sept. 10 -- The Delhi High Court on Thursday said the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) should frame guidelines to balance the interests of the country and athletes, particularly women returning to competitive sport after maternity.

Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma said the absence of clear guidelines and timelines could result in unfairness, and observed that women often have to step back from their careers after marriage and childbirth while men continue to compete.

The observations came while hearing wrestler Vinesh Phogat's plea seeking permission to participate in the women's selection trials for the 2026 Senior World Championships. The court said it would pass an order on her application.

Phogat has challenged a September 7 ...