Vinesh Phogat and other female wrestlers have decided to appeal against the Delhi court’s decision to acquit former MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh in a sexual harassment case. In a post on X, Ms. Phogat announced that the wrestlers have instructed their lawyers to file an appeal as soon as possible. “We have not lost hope and will continue our fight,” she stated.
The MP and his aide Vinod Tomar were acquitted by a Delhi court on August 3, 2026. Reacting to the verdict, Ms. Phogat expressed her disappointment. She highlighted that it took great courage for the wrestlers to file a complaint against a powerful leader of the ruling party. Despite attempts by Mr. Singh and his associates to intimidate them into withdrawing their case, many wrestlers stood firm in court.
Ms. Phogat criticized what she described as systemic support for Mr. Singh. “From the very beginning, the entire system, including the government, has worked to protect Brijbhushan,” she said.
The case dates back to 2016–2019 when several wrestlers, including minors, accused Mr. Singh of sexual harassment. The allegations were made at the WFI office, his official residence, and during foreign trips. Renowned wrestlers like Sakshi Malik, Bajrang Punia, and Sangeeta Phogat joined Ms. Phogat in protesting against Mr. Singh for months in 2023, demanding his arrest.