Wrestler Vinesh Phogat has said the women wrestlers will challenge the acquittal of former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh in the sexual harassment case, asserting that their fight for justice is not over.
Her statement came shortly after a Delhi court acquitted Brij Bhushan Singh and former WFI Assistant Secretary Vinod Tomar in the case filed by six women wrestlers.
‘We Are Deeply Saddened by the Verdict’
Reacting to the court’s decision, Phogat said the wrestlers were disappointed by the outcome and would continue pursuing legal remedies.
“We are deeply saddened that the court has found Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh not guilty of the allegations of sexual violence made by women wrestlers.”
She added that the complainants have instructed their legal team to file an appeal against the verdict at the earliest.
“The women wrestlers have instructed their lawyers to appeal against this decision, and this will be done as soon as possible. We have not given up hope and the wrestlers will continue their fight.”
Vinesh Phogat Recalls 2023 Protest
Looking back at the wrestlers’ protest in 2023, Phogat said the athletes had shown courage by demanding legal action against the former WFI chief.
She alleged that several complainants faced pressure and intimidation during the course of the case and claimed the wrestlers continued their legal battle despite significant challenges.
These remarks reflect Phogat’s allegations.
Background of the Case
The case originated after several women wrestlers staged a protest at Jantar Mantar in 2023, accusing Brij Bhushan Singh of sexual harassment and seeking his arrest and removal from the Wrestling Federation of India.
Following the Supreme Court’s intervention, Delhi Police registered FIRs and later filed a chargesheet against Singh and Vinod Tomar.
After nearly two years of trial, a Delhi court acquitted both accused.
Brij Bhushan Singh Welcomes Verdict
Following the judgment, Brij Bhushan Singh described the verdict as a “moment of happiness.”
He reiterated that he had maintained his innocence from the beginning and said he had always been prepared to face the strictest punishment if any allegation against him had been proven.
The acquittal has now set the stage for a possible appeal, with the complainants indicating they intend to challenge the verdict before a higher court.
