Indian court acquits ex-wrestling chief in sexual harassment case
Summary
A court in New Delhi cleared the former head of India’s wrestling federation, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, of sexual harassment and stalking charges filed by female wrestlers. The court found problems with witness statements and decided there was not enough proof to convict Singh.Key Facts
- Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh was accused by five female wrestlers of groping and demanding sexual favors, which he denied.
- The case began in 2020 and caused protests led by top Indian wrestlers like Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik.
- Singh was charged in 2024 but finished his term and was not re-nominated; his son later won Singh’s political seat.
- The court cited inconsistencies and contradictions in witness statements as reasons for acquittal.
- Female wrestlers protested for months in 2023, including sit-ins and public demonstrations in New Delhi.
- Olympic wrestler Bajrang Punia returned a civilian award and Sakshi Malik retired from wrestling to protest Singh’s leadership.
- After the verdict, Singh’s supporters celebrated with firecrackers and flowers.
- The wrestlers plan to appeal the court’s decision and continue their legal fight.
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