Wrestling federation chief faces chargesheet for sexual harassment: Refuses to step down amid controversy
Delhi Police files extensive 1000-page chargesheet against Wrestling Federation chief following meticulous investigation and inquiries
New Delhi, July 12: The Delhi Police has filed a comprehensive 1000-page chargesheet against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the suspended chief of India's Wrestling Federation, following an extensive investigation that involved the questioning of over 100 individuals.
Despite the chargesheet, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh has refused to step down from his position and exhibited inappropriate behavior when confronted by a reporter from Times Now. Not only did he decline to resign, but he also mistreated the reporter and forcefully shut a car door on the microphone.
Sources reveal that the chargesheet against the Wrestling Federation chief was filed after a thorough investigation, during which 15 individuals testified in support of the seven wrestlers who accused him of sexual harassment. These witnesses included friends and family members of the wrestlers.
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Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh faces charges of sexual harassment, stalking, wrongful confinement, and criminal intimidation. Additionally, a separate First Information Report (FIR) has been registered against him based on allegations made by a minor wrestler under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. If convicted, he could face three to seven years in prison for the two cases.
However, the Delhi Police has requested the cancellation of the POCSO case, citing insufficient evidence.
The Wrestling Federation chief has been summoned by Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on July 18. Police sources have stated that there is substantial evidence to proceed with the trial and impose punishment on the accused.
When asked about the charges against him, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh declined to comment and stated that he would address the matter in court, refusing to provide any media "masala."
Previously, Singh had denied all allegations and stated that he would resign only if directed to do so by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The wrestlers, including several national and international medalists, had staged protests earlier this year, demanding action against the accused. In April, they conducted a sit-in at Jantar Mantar, which was eventually disbanded by the Delhi Police after multiple confrontations.
The incident, where visuals emerged of Olympians being forcefully detained and dragged by the police, sparked shock and outrage throughout the nation. Following the incident, the government intervened and advised the wrestlers to await the completion of the police investigation.