In a recent development in the world of Indian wrestling, renowned wrestler Bajrang Punia was granted bail by a Delhi court in a criminal defamation case filed against him by coach Naresh Dahiya. The case stems from allegations that Bajrang made during a protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.
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The incident occurred during a wrestlers’ protest, where Bajrang Punia, a top-tier wrestler, questioned Dahiya’s credibility to oppose the agitation, citing a rape case that Dahiya was reportedly facing. This statement led to Dahiya filing a criminal defamation case, claiming that Bajrang’s remarks had tarnished his image.
Wrestler #BajrangPunia gets bail in #criminal #defamation casehttps://t.co/aV2hU5TBWN
— The Tribune (@thetribunechd) November 9, 2023
Bajrang Punia, who recently faced disappointment at the Asian Games by not securing a medal, had initially sought exemption from physical appearance in court and missed the first three hearings. However, he appeared in court for the latest proceedings, where his bail was granted. The next hearing is scheduled for March 5.
According to advocate Rajesh Kumar Rexwal, who represented Naresh Dahiya, Bajrang Punia’s comments had adversely affected the coach’s reputation. Dahiya argued in court that he had been acquitted in the rape case mentioned by Bajrang, emphasizing that the wrestler’s statements were baseless and damaging.
The controversy adds another layer to the ongoing turmoil within the Indian wrestling community. Bajrang Punia, along with fellow wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik, had led a protest against WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. The trio alleged that Singh had sexually exploited several women wrestlers, prompting a court case against the federation chief.
Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh has vehemently denied all the charges leveled against him and is currently facing legal proceedings in the matter. The allegations have cast a shadow over the Indian wrestling scene, raising questions about the internal dynamics and integrity of the sport’s governing body.
As the wrestling community grapples with these controversies, the bail granted to Bajrang Punia offers a temporary reprieve for the accomplished athlete. The case highlights the delicate balance between athletes expressing their opinions and the potential legal ramifications that may follow.
In the coming weeks, the wrestling fraternity will be closely watching the developments surrounding the defamation case and the allegations against the WFI chief. The sport, which has brought pride to the nation on numerous occasions, now finds itself embroiled in a legal and reputational battle that could have far-reaching consequences.
As the drama unfolds, the wrestling community and fans alike await further clarity on the allegations, hoping for a resolution that preserves the integrity of the sport while ensuring justice for all parties involved. The next court hearing on March 5 will likely shed more light on the intricacies of this complex and controversial case.
