India’s Olympic medallist Sushil Kumar arrested in murder case

Two-time Olympic medallist Sushil Kumar and another person were arrested on Sunday in connection with the Chhatrasal Stadium brawl case that led to the death of a wrestler, officials said.

The 37-year-old had been on the run since 23-year-old Sagar Dhankhar was beaten to death on May 4. The Delhi Police had announced a reward of Rs one lakh for information leading to the arrest of Sushil Kumar, who had since been on the run. Another reward of Rs 50,000 was announced for Ajay Kumar’s arrest.

Earlier, a Delhi Court had refused to grant anticipatory bail to the Olympic medallist, saying he was prima facie the main conspirator and allegations against him were serious in nature.

Non-bailable warrants were issued against him and six others. This came days after a lookout notice was issued against the wrestler.

Kumar’s lawyers said he was innocent and accused police of bias, according to AFP news agency.

Another wrestler involved in the fight at Chhatrasal Stadium, who has been receiving treatment for their injuries, identified the alleged attackers to officers, police said.

Police then launched raids in the Delhi region, and offered a $1,350 (£954) reward for any information leading to Kumar’s capture.

“We have recorded statements of all the victims and they all made allegations against Sushil Kumar,” senior police officer Guriqbal Singh told Indian media.

Kumar was the first Indian to win two individual Olympic medals and also the first in more than five decades to get a wrestling medal.

His success inspired a generation of Indian wrestlers, including Yogeshwar Dutt and the Phogat sisters.

While still active in the sport, Kumar had not qualified for the Tokyo Games where India had hopes of winning four medals.