Olympian wrestler Sushil Kumar arrested in murder case

Bengaluru, May 22: India's two-time Olympian medallist Sushil Kumar was arrested near Jallandar, Punjab, in connection with the Chhatrasal Stadium brawl that led to the death of a wrestler, the IANS news agency reported.

Sushil who was on the run for over a fortnight for alleged links with the murder of former international wrestler Sagar Dhankar, was arrested by Delhi Police according to a source.

"Kumar has been arrested near Jalandhar. His associate Ajay Kumar, accused in the case, has also been arrested," a source told IANS.

Wrestler murder case: Absconding Sushil Kumar spotted in a car at Meerut toll plaza

It may be recalled that On May 18, Sushil had moved an anticipatory bail in New Delhi's Rohini court, but the court rejected his bail plea.

Last week, Delhi Police had announced a cash award of Rs 1 lakh for feedback on the celebrated wrestler who was absconding since May 4.

Image has been tarnished due to accusations against Sushil Kumar: WFI

On May 4, two groups of wrestlers clashed with each other at Chhatrasal Stadium leading to the death of 23-year-old Dhankar due to injuries he sustained during the brawl.

The Delhi court had also issued a non-bailable warrant (NBW) against Sushil.

Later, they issued a lookout notice for Kumar.

"A lookout notice has been issued for Kumar," Dr Guriqbal Singh Sidhu, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (North West Delhi) had said.

Sushil, employed with the Indian Railways, is posted as an Officer on Special Duty (OSD) at Chhattrasal Stadium, where the brawl allegedly took place.

According to police, a 23-year-old wrestler died and his two friends got injured after they were allegedly brutally assaulted by other wrestlers inside Chhatrasal Stadium in the northern part of the city.

Sushil had won bronze in 2008 Beijing Olympic Games and silver in 2012 London Olympic Games in 66 kg category.

Sushil's international success triggered a revolution and created an inspirational legacy. The reserved grappler from Najagarh's Baprola village is to date India's only world champion (2010) in the sport. He is also the only one to claim two individual Olympic medals, an exceptional feat for a country that has seen very limited success at the Games.

(With inputs from Agencies)