Overview
- The Rouse Avenue magistrate acquitted Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and former WFI assistant secretary Vinod Tomar on Monday, August 3, 2026, saying the prosecution failed to prove the charges beyond reasonable doubt.
- The prosecution had run a long in‑camera trial that examined 32 witnesses, closed its evidence in May 2026, recorded the accused’s statements in June, and finished final arguments on July 2, 2026.
- Court records and reporting say proceedings were held behind closed doors, a separate POCSO case was closed after the minor complainant withdrew her allegation, two of six complainants turned hostile, and one complainant’s allegations were not framed as charges.
- Lead complainants including Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia said they will appeal and the public prosecutor has said the prosecution will review the detailed order to decide on further legal steps.
- The episode began with the 2023 Jantar Mantar sit‑in that prompted a Sports Ministry oversight review, and the acquittal will prolong national debate over athlete safety, federation governance and political influence as appeals proceed.