Sushil Kumar : The Delhi High Court has granted bail to two-time Olympic medalist Sushil Kumar in connection with the Sagar Dhankar murder case. The court’s decision comes after the wrestler spent over three years in judicial custody.
Sushil Kumar : Delhi High Court Grants Bail to Olympian Sushil Kumar in Murder Case
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Bail Conditions and Court Ruling
The High Court, presided over by Justice Sanjeev Narula, approved Kumar’s bail on the condition that he furnishes a bail bond of Rs 50,000, along with two sureties of the same amount. While a detailed order from the court is still awaited, this decision marks a significant legal development in the high-profile case.
Background: The Murder Case Against Sushil Kumar
The case dates back to May 4, 2021, when a violent altercation took place at Delhi’s Chhatrasal Stadium. Sushil Kumar, along with his associates, allegedly assaulted junior national wrestling champion Sagar Dhankar and two others over a property dispute. The attack resulted in Dhankar’s death due to cerebral damage caused by blunt force trauma.
Following the incident, Kumar went into hiding for 18 days before being arrested in Delhi’s Mundka area. The police later filed a 170-page chargesheet, naming Kumar as the prime accused in the case. Charges under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including murder, rioting, and criminal conspiracy, were framed against him and 17 others.
Legal Proceedings and Bail History
Since June 2, 2021, Sushil Kumar has remained in judicial custody. However, he was granted interim bail on two previous occasions—once for his father’s last rites and another time for a knee surgery.
His bail plea was earlier rejected by the trial court in July 2024, which cited strong evidence, including eyewitness testimonies, location data, medical reports, and a video allegedly showing Kumar at the crime scene. Despite these factors, the High Court has now decided to grant him bail.
Sushil Kumar: A Celebrated Athlete Caught in Legal Turmoil
Sushil Kumar is a renowned figure in Indian sports, having won a bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and a silver medal at the 2012 London Olympics. He remains India’s only wrestler to have won two Olympic medals. However, his reputation took a severe hit following his implication in this high-profile criminal case.
What’s Next for Sushil Kumar?
While Kumar has secured bail, the legal battle is far from over. The case is still ongoing, and further court proceedings will determine his fate. The police and prosecution continue to present their case, emphasizing the gravity of the charges against him.
The Delhi High Court’s detailed order on the bail decision is awaited, which will provide further clarity on the reasons behind this ruling and the next steps in the judicial process.
FAQs
Why was Sushil Kumar arrested?
He was arrested for his alleged involvement in the murder of wrestler Sagar Dhankar at Chhatrasal Stadium in May 2021.
How long was Sushil Kumar in custody?
He spent over three years in judicial custody before being granted bail by the Delhi High Court.
