Wrestling Federation Chief summoned amid sexual harassment allegations, global outrage erupts
New Delhi, July 07: Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the chief of the Wrestling Federation of India, has been summoned to Delhi's Rose Avenue court on July 18 in response to allegations of sexual harassment made by multiple athletes. The court has deemed that there is sufficient evidence to proceed with the case against him.
The Delhi Police filed a chargesheet on June 15, accusing Singh, a six-time MP, of sexual harassment, criminal intimidation, and stalking. The chargesheet came after complaints from several female wrestlers, causing an international uproar due to the delayed action taken.
I will appear before the court on 18th July. I do not want any exemption from appearing before court: Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh to ANI
(File photo) https://t.co/SvAKZDP6SN pic.twitter.com/8xPPxDh9DO — ANI (@ANI) July 7, 2023
In addition to the charges mentioned above, another First Information Report (FIR) was filed against Brij Bhushan Singh under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, based on allegations made by a minor wrestler. This FIR was part of a series of accusations by seven female grapplers who accused Singh of sexual harassment.
Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh has vehemently denied all allegations of sexual misconduct, issuing a defiant statement refuting the charges. If convicted, he could face up to three years of imprisonment. Despite the denial, one of his aides stated that the lawmaker will continue to cooperate with the police and respect the court's decision.
The summoning of Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the Wrestling Federation of India chief, by the court highlights the serious sexual harassment allegations brought against him by several female athletes. The court's decision to proceed with the case signifies that there is sufficient evidence to pursue legal action.
The accusations have garnered significant attention both domestically and internationally, shedding light on the issue of harassment within the sports industry. The legal proceedings will determine the outcome and potential consequences for Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh if found guilty of the charges.
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- With inputs from agencies
