A New Delhi court has cleared Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the former head of India's wrestling federation, of sexual harassment and stalking charges brought by medal-winning athletes. The 69-year-old former lawmaker from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had denied all allegations, which included groping and demands for sexual favours from women wrestlers. Main Developments Singh's lawyer, Rajiv Mohan, announced the acquittal on Monday, stating his client had been "honourably acquitted". The court reportedly found "inconsistencies" in witness statements and "contradiction on major issues" before reaching its verdict. Celebrations erupted outside the courtroom as Singh's supporters set off firecrackers, showered him with flower petals, and chanted slogans. Singh told reporters he had previously said he would hang himself if found guilty, and now walks free after being "honourably acquitted". Read also: Sri Lanka Women Clinch T20 Series With Six-Wicket Win Background The case stems from 2023, when Delhi police charged Singh following months of mounting pressure from protesting athletes. Top wrestlers, including world champion Vinesh Phogat and Olympic bronze medallist Sakshi Malik, led weeks of demonstrations demanding Singh's removal as head of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). The protests drew widespread public attention, with leading wrestlers camping at a protest site in Delhi and accusing authorities of failing to act on their complaints. Images of Phogat and other athletes being detained while trying to march to parliament went viral on social media. Why It Matters Wrestling holds deep cultural significance in rural northern India, making this case particularly resonant. The acquittal could have far-reaching implications for how similar allegations against powerful sports administrators are handled in the country. Phogat said the athletes would appeal against the judgement to a higher court and "continue their fight" against Singh. She acknowledged on X that it took "a great deal of courage" to take to the streets and register a complaint against a powerful leader of the ruling party. What's Next The athletes' planned appeal will now move to a higher court, where the inconsistencies identified in witness statements will likely be scrutinised. The case's progression could set a precedent for future sexual harassment claims within Indian sports administration.