A Delhi court on Thursday reserved its verdict in the sexual harassment case against former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and BJP ex-MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate Ashwini Panwar scheduled the order for August 3 after final arguments were completed in the case lodged by six women wrestlers.
Charges Framed Against Singh and Tomar
In May 2024, the court had ordered the framing of charges of criminal intimidation against Singh. However, it discharged him in a complaint filed by one of the six women wrestlers. The court also ordered framing of charges against co-accused and former WFI assistant secretary Vinod Tomar. Both accused are currently out on bail.
Delhi Police Chargesheet Details
The Delhi Police filed a chargesheet against Singh, a six-time MP, on June 15 under Sections 354 (assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty), 354-A (sexual harassment), 354-D (stalking), and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code. The case stems from allegations made by six women wrestlers who accused Singh of sexual harassment during his tenure as WFI chief.
The wrestlers' protest, which gained national attention in early 2023, demanded Singh's arrest and resignation. The Delhi Police initially closed the case in August 2023, but the court directed further investigation, leading to the chargesheet.
Court Proceedings and Bail Status
During the final arguments, both prosecution and defense presented their cases. The court will deliver its verdict on August 3. Singh and Tomar remain on bail pending the outcome. The case has been closely watched as a test of accountability for sports administrators in India.
