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2 September 2026

Delhi HC seeks response on maternity policy for athletes

The topic highlights systemic gaps in gender-inclusive policy and institutional support for women in sports, serving as useful context for broader discussions on women's empowerment and workplace equity.

1 min read 2 questions 1 prelims

Notes

  • Delhi High Court has sought responses from the Centre, Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), and Indian Olympic Association regarding a petition for a structured maternity policy for women athletes.
  • The petition highlights the lack of accommodations for athletes returning to competitive sports after maternity leave, specifically regarding ranking protection and selection processes.
  • Current selection criteria often rely on performance in tournaments held during an athlete's maternity period, which acts as a barrier to re-entry.
  • The petitioner advocates for a transparent, objectively verifiable selection framework and alternative mechanisms for athletes disadvantaged by maternity-related absences.
  • International standards currently provide benefits and ranking protections for athletes on maternity leave, which are absent in the current Indian framework.
  • The court has scheduled the next hearing for November 18, 2024.

Questions

  1. Discuss the need for a gender-sensitive policy framework in Indian sports to ensure the equitable participation of women athletes post-maternity. How can such policies contribute to improving India's performance in international sporting events? 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. The absence of institutional support for women athletes during maternity reflects broader systemic challenges in achieving gender equality in professional spheres. Examine the role of national sports federations in aligning domestic selection processes with international best practices to protect the career longevity of women athletes. 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. Which of the following bodies are respondents in the Delhi High Court petition regarding maternity policy for athletes?

Syllabus

Topics

Sources

250words.in · https://250words.in/daily/2026-09-02/delhi-hc-seeks-response-on-maternity-policy-for-athletes