Brij Bhushan Singh Gets Final Shot to Reply to Wrestlers' Appeal
Delhi Court gives Brij Bhushan Singh a final week to reply to the wrestlers' appeal against his acquittal in the sexual harassment case.
The legal battle between former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and a group of women wrestlers has entered a critical phase. In a decisive move, the Rouse Avenue Court in Delhi has granted Singh one final opportunity to file his response to the appeal challenging his previous acquittal in a high-profile sexual harassment case.
No More Extensions
Special Judge Dig Vinay Singh issued the directive on October 28, 2026, making it clear that this is the last window available for the former WFI chief. The court has stipulated a strict one-week deadline for the filing of the reply, explicitly stating that no further extensions will be permitted under any circumstances.
The Core of the Appeal
The current proceedings stem from an appeal filed by four women wrestlers. They are contesting the August 3, 2026, verdict that acquitted both Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and the former WFI assistant secretary, Vinod Tomar.
The appellants have raised serious concerns regarding the original judgment, arguing that:
- The acquittal was based on a flawed evaluation of the available evidence.
- The court relied on stereotypical assumptions regarding victims of sexual harassment.
Legal Arguments and Delays
During the court hearing, Singh's legal representatives—advocates Rajiv Mohan, Rehan Khan, and Rishabh Bhati—sought additional time to prepare the response. The defense team claimed that there were delays in receiving the necessary appeal documentation, which hindered their ability to file the reply on time.
Delhi Police Under the Scanner
While the focus remains on Singh's response, the court is also seeking clarity from the state. Additional Public Prosecutor (APP) Manish Rawat has been directed to clarify the Delhi Police's stance on the matter. Specifically, the court wants to know if the state intends to file its own revision petition against the acquittal of the accused.
Background of the Case
The roots of this legal saga trace back to June 15, 2023, when the Delhi Police filed a massive 1,500-page chargesheet. The allegations against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh involve several sections of the Indian Penal Code, including:
- Section 354: Assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty.
- Section 354A: Sexual harassment.
- Section 354D: Stalking.
- Section 506(1): Criminal intimidation.
- Section 109: Punishment of abetment.
The court has now scheduled the next hearing for November 20, 2026, to review the progress and determine the next steps in this contentious legal fight.