02 June,2023 11:33 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
Some wrestlers claim that Singh made advances, promising to help them in their careers in exchange for sexual favors. Pic/PTI
Following the sexual harassment allegations against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the chief of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and BJP MP, the Delhi Police have registered two FIRs based on complaints by six wrestlers and the father of wrestler who is a minor. The wrestlers have detailed instances of alleged sexual harassment and inappropriate behaviour in the FIR. However, Singh has reportedly denied all the allegations against him, the PTI reported on Friday.
The FIR against Brij Bhushan Singh was registered under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses (POCSO) Act by Delhi Police on the complaint of the wrestlers, as per the PTI.
Here are ten key points based on the allegations of the wrestlers-
FIRs Registered: Delhi Police have registered two FIRs against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh based on complaints by six wrestlers and the father of a wrestler who is a minor.
Allegations by Wrestlers: Wrestlers allege instances of sexual harassment, inappropriate behaviour, groping, stalking, and intimidation allegedly by Singh, according to PTI.
Charges under IPC and POCSO Act: Singh has been charged under sections of the IPC, including assaulting a woman to outrage her modesty (Section 354), sexual harassment (354 A), and stalking (354 D). The FIR filed by the father of a wrestler who is a minor invokes the POCSO Act, the PTI reported.
Promises of Professional Support: Some wrestlers have alleged that Singh allegedly made advances, promising to help them in their careers.
Denial of Charges: Brij Bhushan Singh has denied all the allegations and had recently said that 'he would hang himself if any accusation is proven against him'. He asserted his care for the wrestlers and emphasised his contributions to their success.
WFI Secretary's name in the case: The FIR filed by the wrestlers also reportedly includes the name of Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) secretary Vinod Tomar.
Specific Incidents: A complainant described an incident where the 'victim' was allegedly called separately, and was harassed, reported the PTI.
'Harassed' during team photograph: Another wrestler complainant alleged that she was harassed while a team photograph was being clicked, according to the PTI.
Offered to buy supplements: A wrestler claimed that Singh allegedly offered to buy her supplements in exchange for sexual favors, the FIR said, according to PTI report on Friday.
Domestic and International Incidents: The allegations involve incidents occurring during championship events, at the WFI office, and at locations in India and abroad, according to the FIR.
(With inputs from PTI)