Serious Allegations Filed Against BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh
In a shocking development, several female wrestlers have come forward to accuse Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the chief of the Wrestling Federation of India and a BJP Member of Parliament, of sexual harassment, intimidation, and inappropriate behavior. The allegations, outlined in two First Information Reports (FIRs) filed on April 28, paint a distressing picture of misconduct spanning a decade.
The wrestlers, who have long been demanding the removal of Singh and an overhaul of the wrestling body, claim that he engaged in acts of sexual misconduct, including groping, asking personal and uncomfortable questions, and demanding sexual favors in exchange for career advancement. The FIRs detail incidents that allegedly occurred between 2012 and 2022, both within India and abroad.
According to the written complaints submitted by the seven women wrestlers at Delhi’s Connaught Place police station on April 21, the accused created obstacles and denied professional opportunities to those who rejected his advances. The wrestlers also raised concerns that the device used to record their depositions during the investigation may have been tampered with to favor Singh.
The women described a pattern of inappropriate touching, molestation, and instances where Singh singled out athletes from their groups to ask personal questions that made them uncomfortable. One of the complainants revealed that Singh pulled up her T-shirt and touched her inappropriately while claiming to check her breath. Another award-winning wrestler alleged that Singh placed his hand on her breast without her permission while she was lying down on the mat, supposedly examining her breathing.
The wrestlers consistently expressed their fear and discomfort, prompting them to travel in groups to avoid being alone with Singh. They accused him of exploiting his position of power within the Wrestling Federation of India to coerce them into complying with his advances. Some of the complainants stated that Singh even resorted to bribes, offering to purchase supplements for one athlete in exchange for sexual favors.
Furthermore, the FIRs highlight instances of stalking and unwelcome advances made by Singh. The minor’s complaint, invoking the Protection Of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO), alleges that Singh forcefully held her, brushed his hands against her breasts, and made inappropriate remarks, despite her clear rejection of any physical relationship.
In response to these serious allegations, Singh has vehemently denied all accusations of sexual misconduct. In a defiant statement, he challenged the wrestlers to present evidence in court, pledging to accept any punishment if a single allegation against him is proven.
The Wrestling Federation of India is currently facing immense pressure to take immediate action. The wrestlers are demanding Singh’s removal from his position, as well as a comprehensive overhaul of the wrestling body to ensure the safety and well-being of all athletes. The allegations against Vinod Tomar, the Secretary of the wrestling federation, have also added to the urgency for a thorough investigation.
These disturbing revelations once again highlight the importance of addressing issues of sexual harassment and abuse within sports organizations. The courage displayed by the wrestlers in speaking out against their powerful chief is a testament to the need for accountability and the protection of athletes from all forms of misconduct.
As the legal process unfolds, it is essential to provide a safe environment for victims to come forward and ensure that appropriate measures are taken to prevent such incidents in the future. The wrestling community and society as a whole must stand united in supporting the survivors and working towards a culture of respect, equality, and dignity in sports.
