In a significant legal development, the Rouse Avenue Court in Delhi has acquitted Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the former President of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and a former BJP MP, in the high-profile sexual harassment case filed by female wrestlers. The court's decision has sparked strong reactions from prominent figures, including ace wrestler Vinesh Phogat and Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi, who have raised serious questions about the judicial outcome and the systemic support provided to the accused.
Vinesh Phogat Expresses Deep Disappointment
Following the court's verdict, Vinesh Phogat took to social media to express her profound grief and frustration. She highlighted the immense struggle the wrestlers faced just to get an FIR registered against a powerful leader of the ruling party, while vinesh stated that it took a tremendous amount of courage for them to take to the streets and fight for justice against a Bahubali leader. She alleged that Brij Bhushan used his power and influence to intimidate several girls, forcing them to withdraw their names from the case. Despite these challenges, Vinesh noted that many female wrestlers remained steadfast and continued their legal battle in court.
Vinesh Phogat further expressed her sorrow that the court didn't find Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh guilty of the sexual violence charges leveled by the female wrestlers. She claimed that from the very first day, the entire machinery, the government, and the system were working to protect Brij Bhushan. However, she emphasized that the fight isn't over. The wrestlers have already instructed their legal team to file an appeal against this decision, and the process will be initiated as soon as possible. We've not lost hope, and the wrestlers will continue their struggle, she affirmed.
Priyanka Gandhi Slams the Government
Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi also reacted sharply to the acquittal, using the opportunity to criticize the central government's stance on women's issues, while she pointed out the contradiction in the government's rhetoric, stating that on one hand, they talk about supporting the younger generation, women's empowerment, and women's reservation, but on the other hand, such outcomes are witnessed. Her remarks suggested a lack of genuine commitment from the administration towards protecting the rights and dignity of female athletes.
Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh's Reaction
On the other side, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh expressed his satisfaction with the court's ruling, while speaking at the Rouse Avenue Court, he stated that his initial stance has been vindicated. He recalled his earlier statement where he had said he would hang himself if the allegations were proven true. My first reaction was that I would hang myself. Today is a matter of great happiness, he said. Along with Brij Bhushan, the court also acquitted Vinod Tomar, who was the Assistant Secretary of the WFI at the time the allegations surfaced. The acquittal marks a major relief for both individuals who had been at the center of a national controversy for months.