Women Wrestlers Argue for Equality in Breathing Exercise Check Controversy

In a recent court hearing at Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court, female wrestlers presented their case against former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) President, Brij Bhushan. The controversy revolves around the exclusive implementation of breathing exercise checks, referred to as "breath check," on female wrestlers by WFI. In the hearing conducted by Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Priyanka Rajput on Tuesday, Senior Advocate Rebecca John, representing the women wrestlers, presented compelling arguments stating that the accused indeed committed the offence, and there is sufficient evidence to frame charges.

The two complainants had previously alleged that Brij Bhushan, while using the pretext of checking the breathing pattern, touched them inappropriately, particularly on the thighs, shoulders, abdomen, and chest areas. They accused him of misusing the breath check procedure for harassment. The court scheduled the next hearing for February 2, where Brij Bhushan and Vinod Tomar, his counsel, will present their arguments.

The women wrestlers' advocate, Rebecca John, strongly contended that the Over Site Committee for the Protection of Women from Sexual Harassment Act was not properly constituted. She argued that the committee's report lacks legal validity as it is not based on facts. She emphasised that the report cannot be relied upon and does not establish the accused's innocence.

Concluding her arguments, John cited the sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), specifically Section 354 and 354A, to assert that Brij Bhushan committed the offence. Vinod Tomar, co-accused in the case, is expected to challenge these assertions in the upcoming hearings. It's noteworthy that Brij Bhushan had received interim bail last year after facing allegations of sexual misconduct by around 30 renowned wrestlers, including Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, and Vinesh Phogat. 

The Delhi Police filed an FIR against Brijbhushan following Supreme Court orders, and the case has been under judicial scrutiny since then. The recent hearing revolves around framing charges based on the investigation carried out by the Delhi Police.