NEW DELHI — A court in New Delhi acquitted Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the 69-year-old former head of the Indian wrestling federation and former lawmaker from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), of sexual harassment and stalking charges brought by medal-winning female athletes. Singh’s lawyer, Rajiv Mohan, stated that his client was honorably acquitted after the court found inconsistencies and contradictions in witness statements. Following the verdict, supporters celebrated with firecrackers and flower petals, while Singh maintained his innocence.
In response, prominent wrestler Vinesh Phogat announced that the athletes plan to appeal the judgment in a higher court and continue their legal fight. The acquittal follows months of high-profile protests in 2023, during which elite Indian wrestlers camped in New Delhi demanding action against Singh, drawing widespread public attention and intense media scrutiny.
