Ryan Bowen, Australian Arm-Wrestler, Receives Stay Extension from Gauhati High Court
Ryan Bowen, Australian Arm-Wrestler, Receives Stay Extension from Gauhati High Court
Digital Desk: The Gauhati High Court has granted Australian arm-wrestler Ryan Thomas Bowen an extension of stay in India until July 13, 2026, in response to an interim order by Justice Kardak Ete.
This order suspends a Leave India Notice issued by the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) due to Bowen's ongoing medical treatment in India, although specific details about the treatment were not provided.
Bowen is set to compete in a professional arm-wrestling supermatch on July 5, known as the Eliza Cup, against American wrestler Brad Grundy. The event is promoted by Bowen's own company, Pound for Pound Armwrestling.
The stay extension has sparked debate over its reasons and whether Bowen should participate in the sporting event while undergoing medical treatment. It also raises concerns regarding his visa status, as he entered India on a 90-day e-Tourist visa on January 24, 2026, which expired in late April.
Bowen applied for an extension on May 26, leading to the FRRO's Leave India Notice on June 4, subsequently stayed by the High Court on June 10. The upcoming arm-wrestling event is anticipated to draw considerable attention, prompting further discussions about visa rules and participation in commercial events on a tourist visa.
