Former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh has welcomed his acquittal in the sexual harassment case filed by six women wrestlers, saying the court’s verdict vindicated the stand he had maintained since the allegations first surfaced.
A Delhi court on Monday acquitted Singh and co-accused Vinod Tomar, bringing an end to the nearly two-year trial in the case.
‘If Even One Allegation Was Proved…’
Speaking to the media after the verdict, Brij Bhushan Singh said he had always maintained that he was innocent and was prepared to face the strictest punishment if any allegation against him was proven.
“From the very first day, I had said that if even a single allegation against me was proved, I would be ready to face the harshest punishment. Today, the court has acquitted us with honour. It is a matter of happiness for me.”
He added that he believed the truth would eventually prevail.
“What I had said on the first day has turned out to be true. I did not know what the other side was thinking, but my first reaction was that the truth would prevail. Today is a moment of happiness.”
Delhi Court Acquits Brij Bhushan Singh and Vinod Tomar
The verdict was delivered by the Rouse Avenue Court in New Delhi after hearing arguments from both the prosecution and the defence.
Singh had faced charges under provisions of the Indian Penal Code related to alleged sexual harassment, assault with intent to outrage a woman’s modesty and criminal intimidation.
Former WFI Assistant Secretary Vinod Tomar, who was also named in the case, was acquitted alongside Singh.
Case Stemmed From Wrestlers’ Protest
The case originated after several women wrestlers accused Brij Bhushan Singh of sexual harassment during the nationwide wrestlers’ protest at Jantar Mantar in 2023.
The protests led to police investigations, the registration of FIRs and a chargesheet filed by Delhi Police. The trial began after the court framed charges against the accused, both of whom pleaded not guilty.
Court Brings Trial to a Close
The prosecution examined multiple witnesses, including the complainants and officials associated with the Wrestling Federation of India and the Sports Authority of India, during the in-camera trial.
After considering the evidence and arguments presented by both sides, the court acquitted Brij Bhushan Singh and Vinod Tomar in the case.
The detailed judgment is expected to outline the court’s reasoning behind the verdict.
