The resolute Wrestlers are undeterred by Supreme Court's latest verdict to close the sexual harassment case against sidelined WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and have said on Thursday (May 4), that they will continue their protest whatsoever.
After directing Delhi Police to file FIRs against the disgraced president of Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) Brij Bhushan for sexual harassment, the apex court gave a verdict on May 4 to close the proceedings despite police vowed to launch a ‘completely independent and impartial’ investigation by a team led by a senior woman IPS officer. Supreme Court's decision came after ensuring the adequate security for the seven complainants, including one minor.
But despite the verdict the wrestlers have decided to go on with the protest until their demands are met. Notably, wrestlers have been sitting on protest since April 23, demanding the arrest of Brij Bhushan.
"We respect the Supreme Court order, protest will continue. Supreme Court order is not a setback, it did what it could in this matter," Rio Olympics bronze medallist Sakshi Malik said.
The wrestlers also said that they will seek future course of action after consulting their seniors
"We have all options open, will decide after consulting seniors," Vinesh Phogat said.
A three-judge Bench headed by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud, Justices P.S. Narasimha and J.B. Pardiwala said the wrestlers had moved the apex court specifically seeking registration of an FIR. The police have since then registered two FIRs against Singh. One of the FIR separately deals with offences under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act allegedly committed against a minor.
"You came here with specific prayers for registration of FIR and security for the complainants. Now both of your prayers have been addressed. If you have any further grievances, you can very well approach the high court or the jurisdictional magistrate," the bench said, adding that it is closing the proceedings for now.
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