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I am one of Brij Bhushan's six victims, reveals wrestler Vinesh Phogat
Wrestler Vinesh Phogat publicly identified herself as one of six women who accused Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of sexual harassment, in an Instagram video reported on May 3, 2026. The disclosure comes ahead of her return at the National Open Ranking in Gonda and amid concerns about fairness and safety at the event. The report also notes ongoing court proceedings related to the case and her recent political position.
Why It Matters
The revelation adds a personal dimension to a high-profile sports governance controversy in India and raises questions about safety, bias, and transparency ahead of major national selections and trials.
Timeline
7 Events
Upcoming National Open Ranking in Gonda (57kg) scheduled
May 3, 2026
The National Open Ranking, part of the Senior Open ranking series, is scheduled from May 10 to 12 in Gonda in the 57kg category, serving as a pathway to the national camp and Asian Games trials.
Official responses: safety guarantees and refereeing
May 3, 2026
WFI president Sanjay Singh says the venue will not be changed and offers a personal safety guarantee. He mentions there are UWW-approved referees and that trial bouts are recorded to ensure impartiality; he notes the tournament is Open and not mandatory.
Concerns about fairness and venue at the Gonda tournament
May 3, 2026
She alleges the National Open Ranking in Gonda is being held in Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh's bastion and at an institution linked to him, raising concerns about bias and whether officials loyal to Singh could influence officiating.
Vinesh reveals she is one of Brij Bhushan's six victims
May 3, 2026
In a 4-minute, 22-second Instagram video, she states she is one of the six female wrestlers who filed a complaint accusing Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of sexual harassment. She notes the matter is sub judice but says certain circumstances compelled her to speak out; she also mentions that the victims’ testimonies are still ongoing.
Vinesh Phogat comes out of retirement
December 2025
The article notes that Vinesh Phogat returned to competition after coming out of retirement in December 2025, marking her first appearance in nearly 20 months.
Vinesh Phogat becomes a Haryana MLA (Julana)
2024
Vinesh Phogat won the Julana seat in Haryana on a Congress ticket in 2024, becoming a legislator.
Background: 2023 Jantar Mantar protests over Brij Bhushan allegations
2023
The article notes that in 2023, protests at Jantar Mantar saw India's top female wrestlers accuse Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of intimidation and sexual harassment and demand accountability from the Wrestling Federation of India.