The former president of India’s wrestling federation, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, has been absolved of sexual harassment charges brought by a minor female wrestler. A Delhi court reviewed a police report advocating for the case's dismissal. Singh, previously a member of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), continues to face allegations from six adult female wrestlers, which he denies.
The controversy erupted in 2023 when top Indian wrestlers protested after Singh was charged with harassment, igniting widespread media attention. Notably, Olympic medallists and world champions were detained while protesting near India's new parliament, leading to international condemnation, including from the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
After meetings with Indian government officials, including Home Minister Amit Shah, the wrestlers temporarily halted their protests. In total, seven females, including the minor, reported experiences of molestation during training camps. Following the police intervention, the minor withdrew her allegations, while Singh attributed such claims to political agendas.
Recent legal findings stated there was no substantial evidence supporting the allegations against Singh. While he resigned from his position in the wrestling federation, concerns lingered that he still wielded influence behind the scenes. Although the wrestling body was suspended temporarily, it restarted operations in 2024 after a ban was lifted. In political developments, Singh was denied a candidacy for the upcoming elections, with his son stepping into the political role instead.
