Ayodhya: Former President of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and ex-Member of Parliament Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh marked a powerful political comeback with a grand ‘Vijay Parade’ in Ayodhya. This public show of strength came after he received relief under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act from Delhi’s Patiala House Court.

Upon his arrival at Maharishi Valmiki International Airport in Ayodhya, he was greeted with a celebratory welcome, complete with drum beats and a shower of flower petals.

He began his yatra by offering prayers at the Hanumangarhi temple, signifying his devotion and signalling the start of his public procession.

Procession causes traffic jams

The former WFI chief led a massive cavalcade through the temple town. The parade, which took place on the third 'Bada Mangal' of the month—a day of great religious importance—resulted in extensive traffic jams across Ayodhya.

Singh asserts faith in judiciary and religion

Addressing the media, Singh reiterated his faith in Lord Hanuman, the judiciary, and himself.

“I have great faith in Lord Hanuman, the judiciary and in myself. When the allegations were levelled against me on 18 January 2023, I said it was a lie. Today, I stand vindicated,” he said.

Singh reflected on his past relationship with the athletes who accused him, saying, “The athletes who accused me of harassment once used to call me the god of wrestling. These athletes used to visit my residence, and I participated in their weddings and festivals.”

Case dropped after complainant's withdrawal

The POCSO case, which concluded on Monday, was based on a complaint filed by the father of a minor wrestler. However, the complainant later withdrew the case, stating that the allegations were false and motivated by personal grievances against Singh.

Despite the closure of the POCSO case, Singh continues to face trial in another court on charges including sexual harassment, stalking, and criminal intimidation, filed by six other female wrestlers. He has pleaded not guilty in that case.

Call to prevent misuse of laws

Speaking from Ayodhya, Singh used the platform to urge the government to prevent the misuse of laws related to sexual harassment.

“From the sacred land of Ayodhya, I demand that the government stop the misuse of sexual harassment laws. It's not about abolishing the law, but it should be reviewed so that its misuse can be prevented,” he said.

He further added, “Sections on preventing harassment are being misused today. I have great faith in the judiciary.”

Referring to an earlier public statement, Singh reminded the press of his pledge: “I had said that if the charges are proven, I will hang myself. What I said has been proven. I am grateful to the judiciary.”

Criticism of legal system misuse

Singh also alleged that various laws aimed at protecting women, Dalits, and victims of dowry harassment are being exploited.

“I'm not against such laws. They are important but there is a growing trend of using them to ruin lives and settle personal scores,” he remarked.

(Agency inputs)