HRD Alert - India, a forum for Human Rights Defenders, is deeply concerned about the brutality, illegal detention, and issuance of fake FIRs by the Delhi Police during an ongoing unarmed and peaceful protest by Indian sportspersons. The protest aims to raise awareness against sexual violence inflicted on them.

On May 28, 2023, Delhi Police displayed brutality during a peaceful protest by Indian sportspersons, including Olympic medalists Mr. Bajrang Punia and Ms. Sakshi Malik, against sexual violence. The protest aimed at demanding action against the President of Wrestling Federation of India, Mr. Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, for alleged sexual harassment. Despite prior FIRs, the police forcibly stopped the march from Jantar Mantar to the Parliament, leading to lathi charges, detentions, and dismantling of protest sites. Legal rights were denied, and intimidation occurred in police stations, violating DK Basu guidelines. The incident raises constitutional and international human rights concerns regarding the right to life, peaceful assembly, and proportionate use of force.

HRDA urgently requested the Hon'ble Commission to instruct the NHRC's investigation wing to conduct an immediate, independent, thorough, transparent, effective, and impartial investigation into the lathi-charge incident during an unarmed peaceful protest. The report, including details on those responsible for the brutality, should be submitted within two weeks.

Direct the Director General of Police in Delhi to dismiss all fabricated FIRs against women wrestlers and activists. Instruct the Director General of Police in Delhi to arrest Mr. Brijbhushan Sharan Singh, accused of sexual violence against women wrestlers. Ensure the return of tents and belongings to protestors, recognizing their fundamental right to peaceful assembly and protest. Guarantee that social activists and human rights defenders in Delhi and beyond can conduct their legitimate human rights work in accordance with the Constitution's fundamental rights.