In a major legal development, Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court has acquitted Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the former president of the Wrestling Federation of India, in connection with the sexual harassment case brought against him by female wrestlers. The court also cleared co-accused Vinod Tomar, the former assistant secretary of the WFI, of all charges. The case stemmed from allegations made by prominent female athletes regarding incidents that allegedly took place during Singh's tenure at the helm of the wrestling body. Following an extensive trial conducted behind closed doors, the court issued its order after considering arguments from both sides.
In-Camera Proceedings and Legal Arguments
The trial was conducted in-camera to maintain confidentiality given the sensitive nature of the allegations. Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate Ashwani Panwar presided over the matter and reserved the judgment after hearing comprehensive arguments from both the prosecution and defense counsel. Senior Advocate Rebecca John represented the complaining wrestlers during the final hearings, outlining their grievances and evidence. Conversely, the defense team, headed by Advocate Rajiv Mohan along with Advocates Rehan Khan and Rishabh Bhati, concluded its final arguments on June 30. The court subsequently instructed both legal teams to submit their written statements within two weeks. Earlier in May, statements from a Special Investigation Team member and the Investigating Officer were officially recorded as part of the evidentiary process.
From Jantar Mantar Protests to the 1,500-Page Chargesheet
The legal action originated from high-profile public protests staged by top Indian female wrestlers at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. Following their formal complaints, Delhi Police conducted a detailed probe and submitted a comprehensive 1,500-page chargesheet on June 15, 2023. The chargesheet contained allegations under Indian Penal Code Sections 354 (assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty), 354A (sexual harassment), 354D (stalking), and 506(1) (criminal intimidation). Vinod Tomar had been named as a co-accused under related sections. The prosecution contended that these offenses occurred during various events and administrative sessions involving the federation both domestically and abroad.
Reactions Following the Court Verdict
Expressing relief after the acquittal was announced, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh reiterated his stand regarding his innocence. He stated that if any charge had been proven he would have taken extreme measures, but today the court acquitted him with honor. Details regarding the court outcome were also shared on X shortly after the verdict was delivered. The ruling concludes a prolonged legal saga that had drawn widespread national attention to sports administration and athlete safety in India.
