Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh: Delhi’s Rouse Avenue Court has granted a major relief to former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh in a case involving alleged sexual harassment of female wrestlers. On Monday, the court acquitted Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and former WFI Assistant Secretary Vinod Tomar in the case. The case involved allegations made by female wrestlers during his tenure as WFI president.
Delhi Police filed a charge sheet against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh in 2023, charging him under various sections, including sexual harassment, assault or use of criminal force against women, and criminal intimidation. Vinod Tomar was also named as a co-accused in the case.
Verdict reserved for August 3
Last month, the court had set August 3 for delivering its verdict in the case. After the completion of final arguments, Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate (ACJM) Ashwani Panwar reserved the verdict. During the closed-door hearing, arguments from the prosecution and defense were heard. The court also directed both parties to submit their written submissions.
FIR filed after Jantar Mantar protest
This case was related to the FIR filed after a protest by female wrestlers at Jantar Mantar. After completing the investigation, the Delhi Police filed a nearly 1,500-page charge sheet on June 15, 2023. The charge sheet mentioned sections 354, 354A, 354D, and 506(1) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
After the court’s verdict, Brijbhushan Sharan Singh said, “I had said on the very first day that if any of the charges are proven, I will hang myself. Today, the court has acquitted me with honor. This is a happy day for me.”