Delhi Police Allegedly Withdraws Security for Female Wrestlers in High-Profile Harassment Case

Former wrestler Vinesh Phogat claims Delhi Police revoked security for female wrestlers set to testify against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. However, Delhi Police refuted the claim and stated the security responsibility was being transferred to Haryana Police. The case involves charges of sexual harassment and molestation against Singh.

Former Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat on Thursday claimed that the Delhi Police has revoked the security cover of female wrestlers poised to testify in the high-profile sexual harassment case against former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. 'Delhi Police has withdrawn the security of the women wrestlers who are going to testify against Brij Bhushan in the court,' Phogat alleged in a social media post.

In response, the Delhi police denied the allegation. 'The security provided to the wrestlers hasn't been withdrawn; instead, it was decided to request Haryana Police to take over the responsibility in the future since the protectees normally reside there,' said DCP New Delhi in a statement.

In January 2023, wrestlers including Phogat, Sakshi Malik, and Bajrang Punia protested against Singh, accusing him of sexual exploitation and intimidation. On May 21, a Delhi court formally framed charges against Singh and former WFI assistant secretary Vinod Tomar. The court found sufficient material to proceed with the charges of sexual harassment and outraging the modesty of five women wrestlers.

The chargesheet filed by Delhi Police against Singh and Tomar cited extensive evidence, including statements from 44 witnesses and photographs taken during events. The testimonies indicated that Singh was allegedly involved in inappropriate physical gestures towards the wrestlers. Despite these allegations, Singh and Tomar have denied all charges.

As the legal proceedings continue, the case against Singh and Tomar includes charges under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code for sexual harassment, molestation, and stalking. Both accused have been cooperating with the investigation and have not been arrested.

(With inputs from agencies.)