Vinesh Phogat confirms she is one of six wrestlers accusing Brij Bhushan Singh of harassment.

In a significant development that has brought renewed attention to a high-profile case in Indian sports, decorated Olympian Vinesh Phogat has publicly confirmed that she is one of the six women wrestlers who have filed sexual harassment complaints against former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. Phogat made this disclosure in a video message shared on social media on Sunday, May 3, 2026. Phogat stated that while she initially adhered to Supreme Court guidelines to protect the identity and dignity of victims, certain circumstances compelled her to come forward and reveal her identity as a complainant. She indicated that her testimonies in the ongoing court proceedings are still being recorded. The allegations against Singh first gained public attention in early 2023, leading to widespread protests by prominent wrestlers in India and sparking a national conversation on safety and accountability within sports institutions. Beyond confirming her identity as a complainant, Phogat also raised serious concerns about the integrity of upcoming wrestling events. Specifically, she expressed apprehension about the National Open Ranking Tournament scheduled to be held in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh, which she identified as the stronghold of Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. Phogat alleged that the choice of venue compromises the fairness of the competition, fearing that the selection of referees and scoring could be influenced by Singh's network. She voiced her concerns about the mental pressure she anticipates facing while competing in an environment perceived to be under Singh's influence, stating that it would be difficult to perform at her best. Phogat further criticized the government and the sports ministry for what she described as inaction, despite Singh's continued public assertions of influence over the WFI, even after his official removal as chief. She highlighted that Singh himself has made public statements, such as admitting to having killed a man, yet has not faced severe repercussions, which contributes to her lack of confidence in the system. Phogat asserted that the government would be held responsible for any untoward incidents involving her or her team during the Gonda trials. Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, a six-term Member of Parliament and former president of the WFI, has consistently denied all allegations against him. The case has seen several legal developments, including the filing of chargesheets by the Delhi Police. In May 2024, a Delhi court formally charged Singh with sexual harassment, intimidation, and outraging the modesty of women, though he pleaded not guilty. A POCSO case related to a minor complainant was previously dismissed after the minor withdrew her statement. The legal proceedings are ongoing, with testimonies being recorded and the matter remaining sub judice. The scandal has had a significant impact on Indian wrestling, leading to widespread protests by top athletes and international condemnation. The WFI itself faced suspension from the global sports governing body due to its failure to conduct timely elections amidst the controversy. The involvement of prominent wrestlers like Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, and Bajrang Punia in the protests has brought national and international attention to issues of athlete safety, governance, and accountability in sports federations in India. The article touches upon the historical context of allegations against Singh, including past controversies and cases he faced, from which he was acquitted. The protests initiated in January 2023 and continued through the year, demanding Singh's arrest and the dissolution of the WFI. The situation remains complex, with the legal battle continuing and its outcome pending judicial decision. Vinesh Phogat's public confirmation of her identity as a victim is a pivotal moment in this ongoing saga, underscoring the courage required by athletes to speak out against alleged abuse of power.

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