SC directs wrestlers "approach the Magistrate or the Delhi High Court if there are any issues.”

Today, the Supreme Court of India closed the petition filed by three women wrestlers seeking FIR registration against WFI (Wrestling Federation of India) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over alleged sexual Harassment. The decision was made on the grounds of April 28, 2023, hearing where Delhi Police told the Supreme Court bench that it will register FIR against Brij Bhushan. The bench comprising Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, Justice JB Pardiwala, and Justice PS Narasimha noted that the purpose of the petition has been served. The Supreme Court bench further granted liberty to the petitioners to invoke the Jurisdictional Magistrate or the Delhi High Court under Section 482 CrPC in case of any further grievances. During the proceedings, the petitioner’s counsel urged that “Keeping in view the conduct of the Delhi olice, I request the investigation to be monitored by either this court or a retired judge. Once it is disposed, the Delhi police will drag its feet.” To this, CJI Chandrachud replied, “We have only said that we are closing the proceedings at this stage, confining ourselves to the prayers. We have not said that this is not worthy of being monitored. You can approach the Magistrate or the Delhi High Court if there are any issues.”

During the proceedings, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta appearing for the Delhi Police informed the Supreme Court bench that all necessary security requirements as directed were made for the minor complainant. The statement of other complainants was also recorded and told the bench that further investigation into the case is processing. However, Senior Advocate Harish Salve seeks to make an intervention on behalf of Brij Bhushan stating that personal allegations were made against him without even making him a party in the case. Further, the top Court asked SG, “Whose statements to be recorded etc, your lordships can leave to the investigative agency. We’re doing our best, neutrally. We are impartial.” The SG replied, “It is being done well, it is done by a very senior lady officer and her team. Every time coming to this court with petitions saying do this first and then this- may not be right.” CJI expressed his concern regarding the investigation being done properly. 

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