SC closes protesting wrestlers’ case: Bench asks to move to lower court for further directions

The Supreme Court Thursday closed the proceedings in a plea that sought a First Information Report (FIR) against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh concerning sexual harassment allegations by several women wrestlers. The apex court closed the proceedings in the case after the Delhi Police registered two FIRs against the BJP MP Brij Bhushan.

A bench of Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud and P S Narasimha did not entertain the prayer to have a retired judge monitoring the investigation. It said the petitioners were at liberty to move the jurisdictional magistrate court or the Delhi High Court in case they felt further directions were needed.

Supreme Court noted that the purpose of the petition has been served as FIR has been registered and that security has been provided to wrestlers. “We have closed the proceedings at this stage. If petitioners wish for something else, they can approach the magistrate or the High Court in its jurisdiction,” reported ANI, citing SC.

The bench also noted in the order that the Delhi Police recorded the statement of the minor complainant on April 29 and the statements of four others on May 3 and that police is taking steps to record their statements before the Magistrate under Section 164 CrPC.

The seven women wrestlers, who have levelled allegations of sexual harassment against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Bhushan, had moved the Supreme Court seeking permission to file an affidavit in sealed cover.