Brij Bhushan Singh Celebrates Acquittal in Sexual Harassment Case

Brij Bhushan Singh's Response to Acquittal

On Monday, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the former head of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), expressed that the accusations against him were part of a larger conspiracy. He stated that he would have accepted the consequences had the allegations been substantiated. Singh welcomed the Rouse Avenue Court's ruling that acquitted him in the case involving alleged sexual harassment of female wrestlers, emphasizing his unwavering faith in the judicial system and his innocence.

"I have maintained that this was a conspiracy, and I would take my own life if any of the claims against me were proven true. I stand by that statement. Today, after nearly three years, the court has honorably acquitted both me and Vinod," Singh remarked.

He highlighted his commitment to defending the rights of those who are marginalized, expressing joy over what he termed a victory for junior athletes. "I have always advocated for the weak and those whose rights were infringed upon. I was confident that justice would prevail, and I never felt guilty. We were fighting for junior athletes whose rights were compromised, and I am pleased that we succeeded in that battle," he added.

Following the court's decision, Singh was warmly welcomed at his home, where supporters celebrated with flower petals and fireworks.

Singh's attorney, Rajiv Mohan, informed the media, "The court has yet to receive a copy of the order. Once it is available, we will clarify the basis for the court's conclusion. Our arguments have been accepted..."

Overview of the Case and Legal Developments

The allegations against Singh originated from complaints made by female wrestlers during his leadership at WFI. In 2023, the Delhi Police submitted a chargesheet against him, citing offenses such as sexual harassment, assault, and criminal intimidation. Another individual, Tomar, was also named as a co-defendant in the case.

Last month, the court scheduled August 3 for the judgment announcement regarding the allegations from the female wrestlers. The hearings were conducted in a closed courtroom.

After both sides presented their final arguments, Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate (ACJM) Ashwani Panwar reserved the judgment, having heard extensive submissions from both the prosecution and defense. The court also instructed the lawyers to submit their written arguments within two weeks.

During the final arguments, senior advocate Rebecca John represented the complainants, while the defense team, led by advocate Rajiv Mohan and assisted by Rehan Khan and Rishabh Bhati, concluded their submissions on June 30.

This case is tied to an FIR filed by the Delhi Police following a protest by female wrestlers at Jantar Mantar, where they raised allegations of sexual harassment against Singh during his time as WFI chief.

Previously, the Delhi Police had submitted a comprehensive 1500-page charge sheet on June 15, 2023, after concluding their investigation into the allegations. The charge sheet included provisions under Sections 354, 354A, 354D, and 506(1) of the Indian Penal Code.

The court had also recorded the testimony of a member of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) on May 12, along with the investigating officer's deposition during the trial. The accused have been undergoing trial concerning allegations made by female wrestlers from both India and abroad, who accused Singh of sexual harassment during his leadership at the Wrestling Federation of India.