A court in New Delhi acquitted the former head of the Indian wrestling federation, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, of sexual harassment and stalking charges brought by medal-winning athletes, his lawyer said. The verdict came after a trial that sparked significant public and political debate in India. The former BJP lawmaker, who was 69 at the time of the trial, had been accused by some women wrestlers of groping and demanding sexual favours, allegations he consistently denied. The court’s decision has led to mixed reactions, with some athletes vowing to appeal the ruling, while others expressed disappointment.

The case, which involved several high-profile athletes, had drawn widespread attention due to the nature of the accusations and the position of the accused. The legal proceedings highlighted ongoing concerns about gender-based harassment in sports and the challenges of addressing such issues within institutional frameworks. The acquittal has also raised questions about the effectiveness of legal mechanisms in protecting athletes from abuse of power.

The ruling has intensified discussions about the need for stronger safeguards and accountability measures in sports organizations. Athletes and advocacy groups have called for reforms to ensure that such cases are handled with greater transparency and fairness. The case remains a focal point for debates on gender justice and institutional integrity in Indian sports. (dawn.com)