Wrestlers Protest: WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh’s ‘maha rally’ postponed as cops deny permission

The Ayodhya district administration has denied permission to BJP MP and Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh to hold a maha rally here on June 5. Singh has been accused of sexually abusing female grapplers.

Circle Officer (Ayodhya) SP Gautam said in view of other programmes scheduled on the World Environment Day on June 5, the permission sought by BJP councillor Chamela Devi on behalf of Singh has been denied.

Meanwhile, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh said that Ayodhya event - 'Jan Chetna Maharally' at the Ram Katha Park - has been postponed for a few days, in view of ongoing probe into wrestlers' allegations against him.

Two FIR filed against him said Singh allegedly groped women athletes, asked inappropriate personal questions, demanded sexual favours to back their careers, brushed his hands across a minor's breast and stalked her.

However, Singh has denied all charges and earlier this week, he issued a statement, once again refuting all allegations of sexual misconduct.

"If a single allegation against me is proven, I will hang myself. If you (wrestlers) have any evidence, present it to the Court, and I am ready to accept any punishment," he said.

After prominent wrestlers, including Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik, came forward with allegations of sexual harassment against the WFI chief, earlier this year, Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur announced the formation of an oversight committee to probe allegations charges against him and some coaches.

Wrestling Federation of India assistant secretary Vinod Tomar is also named as an accused in the FIR filed in the matter. The movement has gained traction, with leading Opposition leaders also supporting the grapplers.

(With inputs from agencies)