A New Delhi court has acquitted Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the former president of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), of sexual harassment and stalking allegations made by several female athletes. Singh, who is 69 years old and a former member of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), faced serious accusations from medal-winning wrestlers, including claims of groping and soliciting sexual favors, which he consistently denied.
The case gained significant attention in 2023, sparking widespread protests led by prominent wrestlers such as Vinesh Phogat, a world champion, and Sakshi Malik, an Olympic bronze medalist. The athletes rallied for Singh's removal from his position in the WFI, citing a lack of action from authorities regarding their complaints. Their demonstrations highlighted the challenges faced by women in sports, particularly in a country where wrestling holds substantial cultural significance.
Singh's lawyer, Rajiv Mohan, announced the acquittal on Monday, stating that the court found “inconsistencies” in the testimonies of witnesses and noted contradictions on key issues. Following the verdict, Singh's supporters celebrated, lighting firecrackers and showering him with flower petals, while he expressed relief, stating, “I had said that day that I would hang myself if found guilty. Today, I am walking free after being ‘honourably acquitted.’”
In response to the ruling, Vinesh Phogat indicated that the wrestlers would appeal the decision in a higher court, emphasizing their determination to continue fighting against Singh. She remarked on social media that it required immense courage for them to take a stand against a powerful political figure, underscoring the risks involved in their activism.
The allegations against Singh emerged after a series of protests that captured national attention, with athletes camping in Delhi and accusing the government of neglecting their grievances. The demonstrations were marked by images of Phogat and other wrestlers being detained as they attempted to march to parliament, which resonated widely across social media platforms.
Wrestling has a deep-rooted popularity in rural northern India, and the outcome of this case reflects broader societal issues regarding women's safety and the treatment of athletes in the country. The acquittal has sparked a renewed dialogue about the accountability of sports officials and the need for protective measures for athletes, especially women, in India.
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