New Delhi — A Delhi court on Friday rejected the bail application of Olympic medalist Sushil Kumar in connection with the murder of young wrestler Sagar Dhankar. The court’s decision marks a significant development in the high-profile legal battle surrounding the Chhatrasal Stadium brawl that led to the death of the budding athlete.
During the proceedings, the prosecution argued against the relief, citing the gravity of the allegations and the potential for the accused to influence witnesses if released. The court took note of the nature of the evidence presented so far, maintaining that the circumstances did not warrant the granting of bail at this stage of the trial.
The case dates back to May 2021, when a violent clash broke out at Delhi’s Chhatrasal Stadium involving two groups of wrestlers. Sagar Dhankar, a promising junior wrestler, succumbed to injuries sustained during the incident. Sushil Kumar, who was later apprehended by the police, faces charges including murder, kidnapping, and criminal conspiracy.
Sushil Kumar, the only Indian athlete to win two individual Olympic medals, has remained in custody since his arrest. While his legal team has consistently sought relief on various grounds, the judiciary has remained firm on the seriousness of the charges. The rejection of this latest plea ensures that the wrestler will continue to remain behind bars as the trial continues to move through the legal system.
