July 22, 2023
In the wake of his recent release on bail in a sexual harassment case filed against him by six women wrestlers, outgoing Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) President and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh commented on the distressing viral video from Manipur. The video showed two Kuki women being disrobed and sexually assaulted by a mob of men, eliciting outrage and condemnation from across the country.
Mr. Singh, who was granted bail on Thursday in the alleged sexual harassment case, expressed his sorrow over the incident in Manipur. He also drew attention to similar occurrences in states ruled by the opposition parties Congress and TMC (Trinamool Congress), namely Rajasthan and West Bengal, respectively. The BJP MP highlighted that many lives were lost during the elections in those states, alluding to violence and unrest.
Regarding the Manipur video, Mr. Singh stated, “This is a very sad incident which has happened in Independent India. Prime Minister has taken cognisance of the matter. He has also made remarks on the matter.” He pointed out that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had expressed concern over the “shameful” incident and assured the nation of appropriate action during the upcoming Parliament’s monsoon session.
The BJP MP’s comments come amidst protests by wrestlers demanding his arrest in the sexual assault case. Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh attributed the protests to a policy-related issue and claimed that recent videos of affected players, along with their court appearances, shed light on the reasons behind the demonstrations.
On June 15, the Delhi Police filed a chargesheet against Singh and his aide Vinod Tomar under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including 354 (assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty), 354A (sexual harassment), 354D (stalking), and 506 (criminal intimidation). Prominent Indian wrestlers, including Olympians Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, and Vinesh Phogat, participated in protests in Delhi earlier this year, urging for swift action against Singh in response to the sexual harassment allegations.
The Manipur video has ignited nationwide discussions on women’s safety and the need for stringent measures to curb such heinous acts. As the investigation continues, the country awaits justice for the victims and seeks assurance that such incidents will not be tolerated in India’s democratic society.
It is important to note that these are the reported statements and developments up to the date mentioned, and further updates may emerge as the situation unfolds. The matter remains subject to ongoing legal proceedings and investigations.
