Brij Bhushan's acquittal in sexual harassment case a 'slap in opponents' face': WFI chief

WFI chief hails Brij Bhushan's acquittal, says verdict vindicates former federation president

Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Sanjay Singh has strongly defended former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh following his acquittal in the sexual harassment case, describing the court's verdict as a "slap in the face" of those who had accused and criticised the veteran BJP leader.

Reacting to the judgment, Sanjay Singh said the acquittal had vindicated Brij Bhushan's long-standing claim that the allegations against him were false.

"This is a slap in the face of all those who conspired against him. The court has delivered justice," the WFI chief said.

Court acquits Brij Bhushan

The remarks came after a trial court acquitted Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh in the sexual harassment case, concluding that the prosecution had failed to establish the charges beyond reasonable doubt.

Throughout the proceedings, Brij Bhushan had denied all allegations, maintaining that the accusations were politically motivated and lacked merit.

Fresh political reactions

Sanjay Singh's comments are likely to intensify the political debate surrounding the case. Supporters of the former WFI chief hailed the verdict as proof of his innocence, while several opposition leaders and activists said they would continue to stand with the women wrestlers who had raised the allegations.

The case had sparked nationwide protests led by India's top wrestlers, who demanded Brij Bhushan's arrest and removal from the Wrestling Federation of India. The demonstrations at Delhi's Jantar Mantar drew widespread public attention and triggered intervention by the Supreme Court, eventually leading to the registration of FIRs and a prolonged legal process.

Impact on Indian wrestling

The controversy significantly affected the administration of Indian wrestling, resulting in leadership changes within the WFI and prolonged uncertainty over the sport's governance.

Even though the criminal proceedings have concluded with Brij Bhushan's acquittal, the episode continues to evoke strong reactions within sporting and political circles.

With the verdict now delivered, attention is expected to shift towards the future of wrestling administration and efforts to restore confidence among athletes and stakeholders.