Protesting wrestlers plan legal challenges following controversial court verdict

Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia declared they will legally challenge the recent court verdict clearing former Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. This firm response follows Monday's decision by Rouse Avenue Court to acquit Singh and co-accused Vinod Tomar of serious sexual harassment charges brought forward by female athletes. Protesting grapplers previously staged prolonged sit-ins at Delhi's Jantar Mantar last year, capturing national attention while demanding strict legal action against the politically influential sports administrator. Statements from top athletes highlighted deep disappointment with the judicial outcome. In a joint social media post, Phogat and Punia stated that taking to the streets and filing a police case against a strongman politician required immense courage. They directly accused Singh of using his political muscle to intimidate several complainants into withdrawing their initial statements. However, they expressed profound sadness that the court failed to hold him guilty, especially since many female athletes stood firm in their difficult legal fight.

Next steps in court

Legal proceedings are far from over, as the athletes prepare their next move. The complainants have explicitly instructed their lawyers to file an appeal against the Brij Bhushan acquittal as quickly as possible. Phogat and Punia firmly stated they have not lost hope and will continue their battle for justice. They also alleged that the government and the entire establishment worked together to shield the accused politician from the very beginning.

Court records show a lengthy and complex investigation. Delhi Police officially filed a 1500-page charge sheet on June 15, 2023. Investigating officers invoked sections 354, 354D, 354A, 506 (1), and 109 of the Indian Penal Code. Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate Ashwani Panwar handled the proceedings in a closed courtroom to protect privacy. The court reserved its judgement on July 2 after hearing arguments from advocates Rajiv Mohan and Rebecca John, before finally delivering Monday's acquittal.

​​​​​​​With Inputs from Agency Threads and Image Courtesy: ANI