Delhi High Court has granted bail to two-time Olympic medalist Sushil Kumar. Kumar had been in custody since May 2021 following his surrender to Delhi police in connection with the murder of a young wrestler, Sagar Dhankar.
Justice Sanjiv Narula, presiding over the case, granted bail to Kumar on a bond of Rs 50,000 and two sureties of the same amount. This decision comes after a prolonged legal battle, with Kumar facing serious charges including murder, rioting, unlawful assembly, and criminal conspiracy.
The case dates back to May 2021 when Dhankar, a 23-year-old junior wrestler, was fatally assaulted.4 The prosecution alleged that Kumar and his associates were responsible for the attack that led to Dhankar's death.5 Kumar has consistently maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings.
The granting of bail marks a turning point in the case, though the legal proceedings are far from over. Kumar still faces trial for the charges against him, and the court's decision on bail does not imply any judgment on his guilt or innocence.
This case has garnered significant public attention, given Kumar's status as a celebrated Olympian and a prominent figure in Indian wrestling. The incident shocked the sporting community and raised questions about the alleged involvement of a sporting icon in such a serious crime.
The trial is expected to be closely watched as it unfolds, with the court's final verdict likely to have significant implications, both legally and for Kumar's reputation.
