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Olympic Wrestler Sakshi Malik ‘Seated On His Bed’ Accuses Brij Bhushan For Sexual Harassment

October 22, 2024, 11:25 am

In her memoir Witness, Sakshi Malik, the 2016 Rio Olympics bronze medallist, has recounted some of the most painful and traumatic moments of her career. Malik, who recently announced her retirement from wrestling, has made a shocking allegation against former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, accusing him of sexual harassment.

Disturbing Incident at the 2012 Asian Junior Championship

One of the most harrowing incidents, detailed in Witness, occurred during the 2012 Asian Junior Championship in Almaty, Kazakhstan. According to Sakshi Malik, Singh lured her into his hotel room under the pretext of speaking to her parents on the phone. After the call, he allegedly tried to molest her.

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“Singh connected me to my parents. It seemed harmless. But after I ended the call, he tried to molest me while I was seated on his bed. I pushed him off and started to cry,” Malik wrote, further alleging that Singh attempted to justify his behavior by claiming his actions were paternal, saying he had put his arms around her “papa jaise” (like a father). Malik managed to escape the room, running back to hers in tears.

A Pattern of Abuse

This isn’t the only traumatic experience Malik has endured. In her memoir, she also shared a disturbing incident from her childhood, involving a tuition teacher who harassed her for an extended period. The teacher would touch her inappropriately and call her over for lessons at odd hours. For years, Sakshi Malik kept silent, fearing it was her fault. Eventually, she confided in her mother, who supported her during both the incident with the teacher and her encounter with Singh.

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Emotional Impact and Moving Forward

Reflecting on the 2012 incident, Sakshi Malik revealed that her parents advised her to focus on her training and competitions, urging her to move forward despite the trauma. “It doesn’t seem like much today, but I was grateful that I was allowed to continue to train, at least,” she said.

Malik’s courageous revelations have reignited discussions about the treatment of women in sports, particularly in wrestling, and shed light on the importance of addressing such issues openly and with the support of family and the community.

Vinesh Phogat Responds To Brij Bhushan’s “Conspiracy” Allegations

September 8, 2024, 9:40 pm

Olympic wrestler Vinesh Phogat has vowed to prove former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh wrong once again. His recent claims suggesting a political conspiracy behind the sexual harassment allegations, as well as his remarks about Phogat’s Olympic performance, have sparked another exchange between the two.

Brij Bhushan’s Allegations
Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, former WFI president, accused Vinesh Phogat of being part of a politically engineered protest against him. He pointed to her Congress candidature from Haryana as evidence that the sexual harassment accusations were fueled by political motives. Additionally, Singh criticized Phogat’s Olympic journey, claiming she violated the rules by attempting to compete in two weight categories on the same day. He even suggested her disqualification was a divine consequence.

Vinesh Phogat’s Response
In an exclusive interview with NDTV, Vinesh Phogat firmly rejected these allegations, asserting that Brij Bhushan’s claims have been proven wrong in the past and will be again. She highlighted that many women came forward with harassment accusations against him, yet he has not faced any consequences. “He claimed he would hang himself if any woman accused him. Many did, and yet he hasn’t kept his word,” Phogat remarked.

Regarding the Olympic accusations, Phogat dismissed Singh’s comments, emphasizing her legitimate participation in national competitions and trials. “I have always competed fairly, qualified for the Olympics, and proven him wrong at every turn. I will continue to do so,” she added.

Looking Forward
Vinesh Phogat continues to focus on her political career and athletic pursuits, standing firm in her mission to fight for justice and uphold her integrity. She remains determined to expose Brij Bhushan’s falsehoods and confront the challenges ahead.

Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh’s Reaction to Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia: “The Move Began Two Years Ago”

September 7, 2024, 11:40 am

In his first response to Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia joining Congress, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh claimed, “The move started two years ago.” The former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and BJP leader accused several top Congress figures of orchestrating the wrestlers’ protest against him, which involved allegations of sexual harassment.

Brij Bhushan alleged that the protest began as a political conspiracy on January 18 two years ago. He claimed the Congress, including leaders like Deepender Hooda and Bhupinder Hooda, was behind the agitation. “This was not a genuine protest by sportspersons but a scripted drama by the Congress,” he stated.

Targeting Bhupinder Hooda, Brij Bhushan suggested that the Congress leader was central to the movement. He accused the Congress of using the wrestlers’ protest for political gain, stating, “The daughters of Haryana are suffering because of this. We are not to blame; it is Bhupinder Hooda, Deepender Hooda, and the protesters who are responsible.”

He also questioned what the Congress would say if it was proven that he wasn’t in Delhi on the day the alleged incidents occurred. “They exploited the daughters for politics and defamed them,” he added.

Earlier, Brij Bhushan criticized the Congress’s approach to Haryana assembly elections, dismissing their chances and expressing readiness to campaign for BJP candidates if directed by his party.

Brij Bhushan further criticized Congress leaders who supported the wrestlers’ protests, accusing them of undermining wrestling in India.

On Friday, Olympians Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia, who had led the protest against Brij Bhushan, joined Congress. Phogat will contest the Haryana Assembly elections from Julana, while Punia was appointed as the working chairman of the All India Kisan Congress.

The Haryana Assembly elections will be held on October 5, with vote counting scheduled for October 8.

Brij Bhushan Sexual Harassment Case: Court Postpones Evidence Recording Due to FSL Delays

July 26, 2024, 6:14 pm

On Friday, the Rouse Avenue court postponed the recording of evidence in a sexual harassment case involving former MP and ex- WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. The delay was due to a mobile phone seized during the investigation being held at the Forensic Science Lab (FSL) in Rohini, Delhi.

Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate (ACJM) Priyanka Rajpoot deferred the chief examination of Constable Mukesh Kumar, who was involved in the investigation and had seized two mobile phones from Deepak Singh and Subedar Yadav in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh. These phones are currently at the FSL.

The court also summoned a victim and another witness, Rashmi, to provide their evidence. The court noted that if the victim is uncomfortable testifying in the courtroom, her statement would be recorded in a vulnerable witness room. The next hearing is scheduled for August 6.

On July 11, the court ordered the trial and recording of prosecution witness statements to commence in the alleged sexual harassment case against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and Vinod Tomar. Meanwhile, Brij Bhushan’s counsel, advocate Rajiv Mohan, withdrew an application seeking documents related to foreign travel and hotel stays, with the option to refile with detailed authority information.

The court formally framed charges against Brij Bhushan and Vinod Tomar on May 21, which they denied, demanding a trial. Charges were initially ordered to be framed on May 10, based on allegations by several women wrestlers. The court found sufficient material to proceed against Brij Bhushan under sections 354 and 354A of the IPC and under section 506 (part 1) based on allegations from two women. However, he was discharged from allegations by a sixth wrestler.

Vinod Tomar faced charges under section 506 (part 1) of the IPC based on one woman’s allegations and was discharged from other allegations. The court scheduled the formal framing of charges for May 21.

The Delhi Police chargesheet, filed against Brij Bhushan and Tomar, indicated they complied with Section 41A of the CrPC by joining the investigation without arrest. The 1,599-page chargesheet included statements from 44 witnesses and six statements under Section 164 of the CrPC, alongside several event photographs. The chargesheet concluded that Brij Bhushan was “liable to be prosecuted and punished for offences” of sexual harassment, molestation, and stalking.

The case originated from complaints by women wrestlers, leading to two FIRs against Brij Bhushan—one under the POCSO Act, which resulted in a cancellation report for a minor wrestler, and another based on complaints from multiple wrestlers. The Delhi Police chargesheeted Brij Bhushan for offences under sections 354, 354A, and 354D of the IPC, and Vinod Tomar for offences under sections 109, 354, 354A, and 506 of the IPC, as confirmed by Suman Nalwa, PRO, Delhi Police.

Brij Bhushan: Delhi Court Defers Order On Police’s Cancellation Report In POCSO Case

May 20, 2024, 5:02 pm

The order regarding the cancellation report submitted by the Delhi Police in a POCSO case against BJP MP and former WFI Chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh was postponed by Delhi’s Patiala House Court on Monday.

A minor ladies wrestler’s allegation served as the basis for the filing of this case. The victim had withdrawn her earlier statement, and Delhi Police had then filed a cancellation report.

Judge Chhavi Kapoor, a Special (POCSO), postponed the ruling to July 27, 2024. It is scheduled to be discussed at 2:00 PM.

Additional Public Prosecutor (APP) Atul Srivastava appeared through video conferencing (VC) in the matter.

On August 1, 2023, the court reserved its order on the cancellation report after noting the response of the minor wrestler and her father. They did not oppose the cancellation report. The minor wrestler and her father had appeared before the court and said that they were satisfied with the investigation of Delhi police, Public Prosecutor Atul Srivastava had told media. He also said that the daughter and her father did not oppose the cancellation report filed by the Delhi police.

On July 4, they had shown up as per the Patiala House court’s notification. A closed courtroom was used for the hearing (in camera proceedings). On June 15, Delhi police submitted the case’s cancelation report. There are more than 500 pages in the report.

In a case involving sexual harassment against Singh and Vinod Tomar, a charge sheet was also submitted to Rouse Avenue Court. It has been mandated by the Rouse Avenue court to file charges against Singh and Tomar.

Delhi Court Orders Charges to Be Framed Against Brij Bhushan for Sexual Harassment

May 10, 2024, 6:33 pm

Delhi court has framed charges against BJP leader Brij Bhushan Singh in a case concerning the alleged sexual harassment of five female wrestlers. The charges include offenses related to outraging the modesty of women. The court found adequate evidence to proceed with charges against Brij Bhushan Singh under sections 354 and 354A of the Indian Penal Code in connection with each victim.

While addressing the case, the court stated, “Charges were framed against Brij Bhushan under sections 354 and 354A in respect of each victim.” However, the court acquitted Brij Bhushan Singh of the charges brought forth by the sixth wrestler.

The framing of charges marks a significant development in the legal proceedings, highlighting the gravity of the allegations and the subsequent judicial process. The court’s decision to proceed with charges under specific sections underscores the seriousness with which such cases are handled within the legal framework.

Brij Bhushan Singh’s case has drawn attention due to his political affiliation, emphasizing the broader societal discussions surrounding women’s safety and accountability, especially within influential circles.

The court’s verdict reflects a crucial step in addressing allegations of misconduct and upholding legal accountability, contributing to the ongoing discourse on women’s rights and justice in India.

Have cut ties with wrestling, says Brij Bhushan

December 26, 2023, 12:37 am

BJP MP and former wrestling federation chief, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, on Monday, said he has severed all ties with the sport and his upcoming meeting with Union Home Minister Amit will have nothing to do with it.
His remark assumes significance, as, on Sunday, the Union Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs issued an official release stating that it had suspended the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) along with its newly elected chief and other office-bearers.

The decision of the Sports Ministry came close on the heels of the newly elected WFI president Sanjay Singh announcing the hosting of the U-15 and U-20 nationals at Nandini Nagar in the Gond district of Uttar Pradesh by the end of the year.
The Sports Ministry termed the decision “hasty” and a “complete disregard to the sports code.”
Bhushan held a press conference later in the day saying, “Sanjay Singh is not my relative. I have withdrawn myself from wrestling affairs of the country.”
On Monday, he reaffirmed that he had broken all ties with the sport and wouldn’t be involved with activities related to the sport.

“Whatever I had to say, I said yesterday. I have taken retirement from wrestling administration and have nothing to do with the sport anymore. As far as meeting Union HM Amit Shah is concerned, if it happens, we will not discuss wrestling. Sanjay Singh should do his work, I am doing mine. The wrestling issue is between the government and the elected federation, I have nothing to do with this,” Brij Bhushan told reporters.
Meanwhile, the newly elected WFI president, Sanjay Singh, weighing in on the decision of the Sports Ministry earlier, said the future of children pursuing the sport is in peril and he would soon hold talks with the government.
“We will speak to the central government, PM Modi and the Sports Minister. The future of our children is in peril. Some members of our executive committee will hold talks with the Centre,” Singh said.

On his ties with former WFI president Brij Bhushan, he said they come from different communities but they share a bond of friendship, adding that he was the joint secretary of the federation during the former’s tenure as the chief of wrestling’s top governing body in the country.
“After the new federation was formed, he (Brij Bhushan) received a send-off and today, he said he has retired from wrestling administration. (Olympian) Sakshi Malik has also retired. With neither of them now associated with the sport, let the federation run peacefully. He (Brij Bhushan) and I are from different communities. So, could we be relatives? When he was the president of the federation, I was joint secretary. It’s the bond of friendship that has held us close,” Singh added.

On Thursday, Sanjay Singh was elected as the new president of the WFI following the conclusion of the election.
An hour later, Olympic medallist Sakshi Malik addressed the press conference and announced her retirement from the sport, claiming that the Centre went back on its word to not allow an aide of Brij Bhushan to be elected to any post in the WFI.
She put her shoes on the table during the press conference, announcing her decision to quit wrestling.

I have taken retirement from wrestling, Brij Bhushan reacts to suspension of newly elected committee

December 24, 2023, 6:14 pm

After the Union Sports Ministry decided to suspend the country’s premier sports governing body, the newly elected Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), along with all of its office-bearers on Sunday, BJP MP and former WFI Chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh declared that he has “retired” from the sport and has “nothing to do with it.” The announcement by Sanjay Singh, the recently elected president of WFI, that Nandini Nagar in the Gond district of Uttar Pradesh will host the U-15 and U-20 national teams by the end of the year closely followed the Sports Ministry’s decision.

After the Union Sports Ministry suspended the newly elected body of WFI, former chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh gave his first reaction to the verdict and said, “The elections were held in a democratic way on the direction of the Supreme Court and the body was formed. Now it’s their (federation members) decision if they wish to talk to the government or take the legal course of action. I have nothing to do with this.”
“Sanjay Singh is not my relative. The announcement to hold U-15 and U-20 nationals in Nandini Nagar was to ensure sports events should resume. It was held in Nandini Nagar because all federations stated that they wouldn’t be able to make preparations for the tournament in four to five days. I have worked 12 years for the wrestlers. Time will tell if I have done justice. I have broken my ties with wrestling. Now decisions and talks with the government will be done by the elected people of the federation. I have retired from wrestling,” Brij Bhushan added.
Meanwhile, Sanjay Singh skirted comments on the Centre’s decision, telling reporters, “I was on a flight. I don’t know the details and have not received any letter yet. I will make a public statement only after going through the letter. I have heard that some decisions have been reversed.”

NGT panel to probe allegations of illicit mining by Brij Bhushan in UP’s Gonda

August 3, 2023, 11:27 am

A Joint Committee has been established by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to investigate claims of unlawful mining made by BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh in the Gonda district of Uttar Pradesh and to determine the truth of the matter and recommend any necessary corrective measures.
To look into claims made by Raja Ram Singh that Kesar Ganj MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh had engaged in illegal mining in towns like Majharath, Jaitpur, and Nawabganj in Tehsil Tarbganj and District Gonda, the NGT established a panel.

Singh also alleged that over 700 overloaded trucks were used every day for the illegal transportation, storage, and sale of about 20 lakh cubic meters of minor minerals. Additionally, he claimed that the Patpar Ganj Bridge and Road were damaged by these overloaded trucks. The bench of Justice Arun Kumar Tyagi (Judicial member) and Dr A Senthil Vel (Expert Member) on August 2, said that “Prima facie, the averments made in the application raise questions relating to the environment arising out of the implementation of the enactments specified in Schedule I to the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010.”

The NGT sets the next hearing for November 7, 2023, and requests a factual and Action taken Report to be filed within two months.

Court summons Brij Bhushan in Wrestlers’ sexual harassment case on 18 July

July 7, 2023, 4:24 pm

A Delhi court summoned BJP MP and outgoing WFI chairman Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh on Friday in a case of alleged sexual harassment of female wrestlers, ruling that there was enough evidence to proceed against the accused.

Brij Bhushan was ordered to appear in court on July 18 after Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (ACMM) Harjeet Singh Jaspal took cognizance of the charge-sheet. Vinod Tomar, the suspended assistant secretary of the Wrestling Federation of India, was also summoned by the court.

Brij Bhushan, a six-time MP, was charged on June 15 under IPC Sections 354 (assault or criminal force to woman with purpose to outrage her modesty), 354A (sexual harassment), 354D (stalking), and 506 (criminal intimidation).

Tomar was charged with violating Sections 109 (abetting any offence if the act abetted is performed as a result and no specific provision is made for its punishment), 354, 354A, and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the IPC.

The court will do its work, says Brij Bhushan soon after wrestlers withdraw protest

June 26, 2023, 12:06 pm

Former Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh claimed on Monday that the case against him for alleged sexual harassment is now in court and will be heard soon.

“I do not want to comment on this as it is now under the court’s consideration. The matter is in the court, and the court will do its work,” Singh told reporters.

Singh’s remark came after the protesting wrestlers announced to withdraw their protest against him, stating that the government has fulfilled its promise of filing a chargesheet against the Chief of WFI, a six-time BJP MP whom they have accused of sexual harassment.

Top wrestlers Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia, in a few similar tweets stated that the fight will now be fought in court, not on the roads. Malik took to Twitter on Sunday to state that the “battle will now be fought in court and not on roads till justice is delivered.”

The tweets posted by 3 main wrestlers reads “As per the talks held on June 7, the government has implemented our demands. The Delhi Police on June 15 had submitted before the court the chargesheet after conducting a probe into allegations of sexual harassment (against former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh), on the basis of an FIR filed by six women wrestlers. Now, the fight will continue in court and not on roads till justice is delivered.”

They also stated that they will wait for new WFI elections, which the government has promised will take place on July 11.

“The process for fresh Wrestling Federation of India election has begun. The polls are scheduled to be held on July 11 as promised by the government. We will wait for the implementation of the promise,” the wrestlers said.

Since the beginning of the year, Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, and Vinesh Phogat have been organising rallies against Singh for alleged sexual harassment. After being removed from their Jantar Mantar protest site on May 28, the grapplers suspended their demonstration till June 15 after Union sports minister Anurag Thakur informed them that a chargesheet will be filed against BJP MP Singh.

Delhi police ask for proofs and chats related sxual harassment case against WFI chief from wrestlers

June 11, 2023, 2:43 pm

The Delhi Police has asked women wrestlers who have accused BJP MP and Wrestling Federation of India boss Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of sexual harassment to give proof in the form of images, videos, or WhatsApp chat messages. In addition, the police served the complainants with a CrPC 91 notice requesting pertinent documentation.

The wrestler referred to as “minor” was not a minor at the time of the event and has since given a new statement in court. As per reports, Her complaint of sexual harassment has not changed, notwithstanding the changes to the age-related information. The father acknowledged this and emphasised the need for the accused’s arrest and in-custody questioning, expressing worries that his powerful position may obstruct the inquiry and intimidate the complainants and witnesses.”An impartial probe can’t be conducted without Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh’s arrest,” she said.

Delhi borders sealed, no protest near New Parliament on 28 May for Khap Panchayat

May 26, 2023, 4:04 pm

According to sources, the Delhi Police has made the decision to shut down all borders on 28 May in order to prevent any protest or gathering following the call by Khap Panchayat for a Mahila Panchayat in support of protesting wrestlers against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the president of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). This date coincides with the inauguration of the new Parliament building by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Top sources within the Delhi Police have revealed that the organizers of the Khap Panchayat have not received permission to hold the event. Consequently, the protestors will not be allowed to convene the panchayat, as it coincides with the inauguration of the new Parliament by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In anticipation of the inauguration, the Delhi Police has initiated special arrangements to maintain a disturbance-free environment. To this end, it has been reported that all roads leading from Jantar Mantar to the Parliament will be closed on 28 May.

Apart from this, a large number of police forces and para-military personnel will also be deployed. The deployment of women police personnel will be higher than before.
Delhi Police top sources told that more than 20 police companies will be deployed in New Delhi, which will include more than 10 women companies.Sources further said that the metro stations near the Parliament will remain closed on May 28. A letter has been sent to Delhi Metro directing the closure of two metro stations.Senior officials of Delhi Police told that farmers from Uttar Pradesh and Haryana may try to enter the national capital during this period. Around 90 khaps with around 3,000 people can enter Delhi.After a high-level meeting, sources said that Delhi Police officials that all the borders of Delhi – Singhu border, Dilshad Garden border, Badarpur border and Tikri border will be barricaded. Besides police, paramilitary forces will also be deployed at the borders.

Delhi Police team to collect evidence against WFI president Brij Bhushan

May 12, 2023, 4:09 pm

On the complaint of the protesting wrestlers, a Delhi Police team went to Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Karnataka and Haryana to collect all the evidence against Wrestling Federation of India president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.

Several women wrestlers came out against the WFI chief, accusing him of sexual harassment. The protesting grapplers continue to camp outside the Jantar Mantar in the national capital, demanding the arrest of Singh, a BJP MP, and his removal from the wrestling federation. Delhi Police are also in touch with foreign agencies to find out more about the allegations he faced on his overseas visits. The police they have collected photos and videos as evidence from different places.

Delhi Police on Friday filed a status report on the application moved by woman wrestlers in an alleged offence of sexual offence levelled against WFI Chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. The court was also informed that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to investigate the matter.

Delhi Police filed two FIRs on April 28 following the notice by the Supreme Court. Earlier this year, prominent wrestlers came forward to lead a protest against the WFI chief, following which the Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Anurag Thakur, announced the formation of an ‘oversight committee’ to probe allegations against the WFI, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and some coaches. Wrestling Federation of India Assistant Secretary Vinod Tomar is also named as an accused in the FIR.

Brij Bhushan has denied the allegations levelled against him by the wrestlers.
On April 23, ace grapplers Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat and Sakshee Mallik returned to the protest site at Jantar Mantar, claiming that six women wrestlers, and a minor, filed a sexual harassment complaint against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh at Connaught Place Police Station but Delhi Police did not register an FIR.

The protesting grapplers also demanded that the Sports Ministry make public the findings of an Oversight Committee formed to look into the allegations against the WFI chief.
Delhi’s Rouse Avenue Court on Wednesday had sought a status report from the Delhi police on the investigation in the FIRs lodged by the wrestlers against WFI chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh alleging sexual harassment.

Wrestlers Protests: Status Report filed and SIT formed & court ask to record statements

May 12, 2023, 2:25 pm

On Friday, Delhi police filed status report on women wrestler’s application in alleged sexual offence against WFI chief Brij Bhushan Singh.The court was also informed that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to investigate the matter.

Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Harjit Singh Jaspal heard the submissions of Additional public prosecutor (APP) Atul Shrivastava and Defence counsel. The court said that it shall decide upon the application once the statement before the court is recorded.Meanwhile, the status report may be kept in a sealed cover.APP Atul Srivastava submitted that a detailed reply has been filed on the application. An SIT has also been formed in the matter. The statement of one of the victims is to be recorded before the court today.

The court asked the Delhi police to record the statement of all the victims before the court. The matter has been listed on May 27 for further hearing.The Court asked the police to give a copy of the report to the Defence counsel.The APP Shrivastava submitted that the report should not be shared as this is a matter of Sexual harassment and it may hamper the investigation and may also disclose the identity of the victims.The report should not be shared with anyone due to the confidentiality and sensitivity of the matter.

The counsel for the victims argued that the public prosecutor is merely tryei6to hamper the victims’ rights and trying to veil the investigation.He also argued that the matter came to the notice of the police on April 21. The accused is disclosing the facts of the investigation in the media. How does he know what is happening in the investigation?
In the first part of the hearing The court had asked, ” Do You want an in camera proceeding?” The defence counsel replied in the affirmative.The counsel for the wrestlers submitted that the police is hiding what is happening in the investigation of our case.

Statement of WFI president Brij Bhushan recorded by Delhi Police

May 12, 2023, 12:57 pm

The SIT has been formed and Delhi police have recorded the statement of Wrestling Federation of India president and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh on the alleged sexual harassment case of female wrestlers.

“On the complaint of the wrestlers, the statement of WFI president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh was recorded and some documents were demanded. Brij Bhushan denied the allegations levelled against him. SIT has been formed with 10 police personnel including four women police officers. A team of ten people was formed under the supervision of a woman DCP,” said Delhi Police. Delhi Police filed two FIRs on April 28 following the notice by the Supreme Court.

Earlier this year, prominent wrestlers came forward to lead a protest against the WFI chief, following which the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports Anurag Thakur announced the formation of an ‘oversight committee’ to probe allegations against the WFI, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and some coaches. The name of Wrestling Federation of India Assistant Secretary Vinod Tomar is also accused in the FIR.

“Statements of Assistant Secretary WFI Vinod Tomar were also recorded. Vinod Tomar is also an accused in Delhi Police’s FIR. Brij Bhushan Sharan has asked to collect some video evidence and mobile data in his clarification. SIT will also interrogate Brij Bhushan further,” said Delhi Police.WFI president Brij Bhushan has denied the allegations levelled against him by wrestlers.On April 23 this year the ace grapplers- Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat and Sakshee Mallik- returned to the protest site at Jantar Mantar, claiming that six women wrestlers, and a minor, filed a sexual harassment complaint against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh at Connaught Place Police Station but Delhi Police did not register an FIR.

Farmers break through Delhi Police barricades to join protesting wrestlers at Jantar Mantar

May 8, 2023, 1:55 pm

According to Delhi Police, farmers who came from different states to show support for the protesting farmers at Jantar Mantar in the national capital on Monday, breached the barricades set up in the area and reached the protest site.

Farmers from various parts of the country including Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh reached the national capital under the Samyukta Kisan Morcha on Sunday to support the wrestlers protesting at Jantar Mantar for over two weeks against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Singh, demanding his sacking and arrest following the allegations of sexual harassment by the wrestlers. The farmers who were escorted to Jantar Mantar were in a “hurry” to reach the protest site and hence “climbed” the barricades, the Delhi Police said.

“A group of farmers were escorted to Delhi’s Jantar Mantar. At the entry barricades, they were in a hurry to reach the Dharna site in which some of them climbed the barricades which fell down and were removed by them. The protestors at Jantar Mantar are being facilitated. Entry is being regulated through DFMD to ensure safety. Please remain peaceful and abide by the law,” the Delhi Police said.

In the wake of the incident, the Delhi Police urged the public to remain peaceful and abide by the law.The protesting wrestlers have made it clear that they won’t move until they get justice and Brij Bhushan is removed as the WFI chief and put behind bars.
The wrestlers took out a candle march in Delhi on Sunday.

‘Modi ji, justice awaits your yes’, Priyanka Gandhi slammed PM over Brij Bhushan’s remark

May 1, 2023, 6:08 pm

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Congress general secretary, slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday after Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh reportedly said he will resign if top party leaders ask him to, saying “justice is waiting for your yes.”

Faced with allegations of sexual harassment from some of India’s top wrestlers, WFI president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh reportedly stated that he will resign if any of the top leaders ask him to.

“If the PM asks, I will resign immediately. Even if (Union home minister) Amit Shah and (BJP President) JP Nadda ask, I will do so,” Singh was heard saying earlier.

In response to his statement, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who met and supported the protesting wrestlers at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, tweeted, “@narendramodi ji keh dijiye. Nyay ko aapki ‘haan’ ka intezaar hai (@narendramodi ji ask him. Justice awaits your ‘yes’).”

… @narendramodi जी कह दीजिए ।

न्याय को आपकी “हाँ” का इंतजार है। https://t.co/l8MFUbDcuv

— Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) May 1, 2023

Notably, following the Supreme Court’s intervention, two FIRs were filed against the BJP MP, the first relating to allegations leveled by a minor and registered under the POCSO Act and relevant sections of the IPC concerning outraging modesty.

Protests against the WFI chief erupted in January, but the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and the government quickly defused the situation by forming a probe panel. Top Indian wrestlers, including Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, and Vinesh Phogat, among others, renewed their call for action against the BJP leader last week.

Brij Bhushan made big claims on SP Chief Akhilesh yadav skipping wrestlers protest

April 30, 2023, 3:54 pm

WFI Chief Brij Bhushan shared a cryptic accusations targeting SP chief Akhilesh yadav maligning his ‘image’ of sexually assaulting women wrestlers. He added that 90 percent of women wrestlers who have complained against him are all from one family and the same akhada.

When reporters asked, why akhilesh yadav and other opposition leaders did’nt joined protest he said ‘Akhilesh Yadav knows the truth. We know each other since childhood. 80 per cent of the wrestlers in Uttar Pradesh belong to families with Samajwadi Party ideology. They call me ‘Netaji’. They say how their Netaji is,” he said.

He added ‘You don’t get justice from Jantar Mantar. If you want justice, you have to go to the police and the court. They never did that until now. Just kept abusing. We will accept whatever the court decides,’.

Yesterday, Congress Leader Priyanka Gandhi, AAP Arvind kejriwal joined wrestlers protest to express solidarity.

Till now, Delhi police filed two cases against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh hours after the Supreme Court ordered them to do so, amidst demonstrations in Delhi Jantar Mantar.One of the FIR’s relates to a complaint of sexual harassment by a minor under the Protecting Children from Sexual Offences Act (POSCO).

In addition, Singh has also been criticized for his alleged interference in the selection of coaches for the Indian wrestling team. Some coaches have accused him of promoting his own candidates for coaching positions and ignoring the merit and qualifications of other candidates.

Day after being asked to step aside as WFI Chief; Brij Bhushan invited as a Chief Guest

January 21, 2023, 2:08 pm

Wrestling Federation of India President Brij Bhushan, who has been asked to step aside till a probe committee submits report into allegations of sexual harassment and intimidation against him, On 21^st January, he was invited to a wrestling competition in Uttar Pradesh as a Chief Guest.

Singh, the BJP MP from the Lok Sabha constituency of Kaiserganj in Uttar Pradesh inaugurated the National Senior Open National Ranking Tournament that began at the Nandini Nagar Stadium in Gonda. He was welcomed by officials and garlanded before being ushered to the stage. Union Minister Anurag Thakur announced that a seven-member oversight committee will look into allegations of sexual harassment and financial misappropriation levelled against Singh.

Addressing a press conference at his residence, Thakur in the presence of wrestlers also assured that justice would prevail in four weeks. Thakur also said that WFI Chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh would step aside till the probe ends and corporate with the committee which will see all the day to day workings of the federation.

Wrestlers Protest: We’ll file case against WFI chief; says Vinesh Phogat

January 19, 2023, 6:01 pm

In the wrestlers’ protest, all the wrestlers have left the protest site and will resume the protest again on Friday at 10 a.m.

Earlier in the day Wrestler Vinesh Phogat said, from the government, we haven’t got any satisfactory response, we will make sure that WFI chief Brij Bhushan Singh resigns and is jailed.

Meanwhile, wrestler Sakshi Malik said, “Govt did not promise any action, they have only given assurance and we’re not happy with the response, we request PM sir to ensure justice.”

Taking to Twitter Swati Maliwal said, “It’s been 24 hours since the country’s champion #Wrestlers have been on strike. When these players win medals, the leaders line up and take photographs with them and take credit for their victory. Why is everyone missing today? Swati Maliwal also asked five questions from the Sports Ministry.”

देश के चैंपियन #Wrestlers को धरने पर बैठे 24 घंटे हो चुके हैं। जब ये खिलाड़ी मेडल जीतते हैं तो नेता लाईन लगाके इनके साथ फोटो खिंचाते हैं इनकी जीत का क्रेडिट लेते हैं। आज सब ग़ायब क्यों ?

खेल मंत्रालय से मेरे 5 सवाल – pic.twitter.com/AABeZawg6z
— Swati Maliwal (@SwatiJaiHind) January 19, 2023

Earlier in the day, champion wrestler and Bharatiya Janata Party leader Babita Phogat met with protesting wrestlers at Jantar Mantar in Delhi on Thursday.

Meanwhile, wrestlers sitting in the protest are demanding action against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief for exploiting several athletes.

Addressing the gathering, Babita Phogat said, “I have assured them that the government is with them. I will try that their issues are resolved today.”

Earlier, the Haryana Sports and Youth Affairs Department and a former wrestler tweeted, “I stand with all my fellow players in this matter of wrestling. I assure all of you that I will work to raise this issue with the government at every level, and the future will be decided the way players feel right.”

“Babita Phogat has come from the government’s side for mediation. We will speak with her and then give more details,” Olympian and 2022 Commonwealth Games gold medalist Bajrang Punia said.

Moreover, on the day of the protest, wrestlers Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, and Punia were sitting in silent protest.

“If we can fight for our country, then we can also fight for our rights. First of all, I thank all the players who have come here. And the statement that was given yesterday said that only 3 percent of players are sitting here, but according to me, all the players are here. You can imagine how strong the players are. And we raised our voice for our rights and are not going to bow down when we do not win,” Punia said.

“We wish that someday if any child comes to wrestling, he should not practice under some pressure,” Punia stated.

Earlier on Wednesday, wrestler Vinesh Phogat alleged that coaches who are favorites of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) harass the women.

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat also accused the wrestling federation chief, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, of calling her ‘khota sikka’ and sexually harassing girls.

“Coaches are harassing women and some coaches, who are favorites of the Federation, misbehave with women coaches as well. They sexually harass girls. The WFI president has sexually harassed many girls,” Phogat alleged.

However, a Lok Sabha MP from the BJP, Brij Bushan Singh, is heading the Wrestling Federation of India.

Brij Bhushan to resign as WFI chief

January 19, 2023, 4:18 pm

Amid ongoing protests by wrestlers in the national capital, it has been confirmed that Brij Bhushan will resign as Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief. Earlier in the day, champion wrestler and Bharatiya Janata Party leader Babita Phogat met with protesting wrestlers at Jantar Mantar in Delhi on Thursday.