Vinesh Phogat to Challenge Court Verdict After Brij Bhushan Acquittal

New Delhi: Former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh has been acquitted by a Delhi court in the sexual harassment case filed by women wrestlers. The verdict has once again brought the high-profile case into public discussion.

The allegations first surfaced in 2023 when several women wrestlers accused Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of sexual harassment. The issue led to months of protests at Jantar Mantar, with Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia emerging as the leading faces of the movement demanding legal action and institutional accountability.

On Monday, the Delhi court acquitted Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh in the case involving six women wrestlers. Soon after the judgment, Vinesh Phogat reacted publicly, expressing disappointment and stating that the legal battle was not over.

In her statement, Vinesh said it had taken great courage for the wrestlers to come forward and file complaints against a powerful political figure. She alleged that several complainants faced pressure during the course of the case, while others continued to pursue justice in court.

She further announced that the wrestlers had instructed their legal team to file an appeal against the verdict before a higher court. According to her, they still have faith in the judicial process and will continue their fight through legal means.

Following the verdict, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh welcomed the decision and reiterated that he had maintained his innocence from the very beginning. He said he had always believed the truth would prevail and thanked those who supported him throughout the legal proceedings.

The case has triggered a nationwide debate over athlete safety, accountability in sports bodies and the handling of sexual harassment complaints. With the complainants planning to appeal, the legal proceedings may continue in the higher judiciary.