The Supreme Court of India has delivered a significant ruling in the case of junior wrestler Sagar Dhankhad’s murder. Wrestler Sushil Kumar, the prime accused, has been ordered by a bench comprising Justice Sanjay Karol and Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra to surrender within one week.
This ruling comes after a series of complex legal battles over bail and ongoing investigations.
In March, the Delhi High Court granted regular bail to Sushil Kumar. However, this decision followed the rejection of his bail petition by a lower court in July 2024.
Subsequently, Sushil Kumar challenged the lower court’s decision by appealing to the Delhi High Court once more.
During the recent hearing, Sushil Kumar’s defence lawyer emphasised that he has been in custody for over three and a half years, with little prospect of the trial concluding soon.
The defence also pointed out that out of 222 witnesses listed by the prosecution, only 31 have been examined so far.
The key witness failed to identify the accused, even though the court had already framed charges against him.
Police Allegations & Evidence
Earlier, during the bail hearings, Delhi Police submitted a detailed five-page status report highlighting the brutal murder of the victim, Sagar Dhankhad.
The report also noted that several others sustained serious injuries. The altercation injured Sagar Dhankhad, who tragically lost his life, along with his friend Sonu and three other individuals.
Due to concerns over potential witness intimidation, the police strongly opposed the grant of bail, stressing the seriousness of the charges and the necessity of protecting the integrity of the investigation.
Sushil Kumar stands accused of murder, unlawful assembly, and criminal conspiracy in the death of junior wrestler Sagar Dhankhad. The fatal incident occurred in May 2021 during a violent clash at Chhatrasal Stadium in Delhi.
The allegation states that Sushil Kumar orchestrated the disturbance to maintain his dominance over the junior wrestlers.
The altercation injured Sagar Dhankhad, who tragically lost his life, along with his friend Sonu and three other individuals.
The Supreme Court’s order for Sushil Kumar to surrender marks a crucial stage in this ongoing case.
With a significant number of witnesses still to be examined, the trial is anticipated to continue for some time.
The case underscores broader issues of violence in sports and the challenges faced in ensuring fair and timely justice in high-profile criminal matters.
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