The Delhi High Court on Monday pulled up the Equestrian Federation of India (EFI) over its decision to submit entries for the 2026 Asian Games ahead of the prescribed timeline, during a hearing on a petition filed by Olympian and India's top-ranked dressage rider Anush Agarwalla.
Agarwalla has challenged the selection process for the Asian Games, alleging a lack of transparency in the manner candidates were shortlisted for the continental event.
During the hearing, senior advocate Kapil Modi, appearing for the EFI, informed the court that definite entries for the Games had already been submitted on June 19.
Anush Agarwalla busy with his favourite horse. File images Counsel appearing for Agarwalla countered the claim, arguing that as per the applicable handbook and entry regulations, definite entries were required to be submitted only between June 22 and July 1.
The submission prompted a sharp response from the bench, which questioned the federation over the timing of the entries. The court observed that the move appeared to be a deliberate attempt to render the petition infructuous before the matter could be adjudicated.
Was Equestrian selection process fair? HC demands answers
While acknowledging that India must be represented at the Asian Games, the court stressed that the selection procedure must remain transparent and fair. The bench directed that the process followed by the federation be placed on record through an affidavit.
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The matter has now been listed for further hearing on June 23, when the court is expected to continue examining the selection process and the circumstances surrounding the submission of entries.
Agarwalla, who represented India at the Paris 2024 Olympics and is currently among Asia's highest-ranked dressage riders, moved the High Court after raising concerns over the selection mechanism adopted for the upcoming Asian Games. The outcome of the case could have significant implications for India's equestrian contingent heading to the continental showpiece.
