New Delhi, August 13, 2025 — The Supreme Court of India has set aside the Delhi High Court’s order granting regular bail to two-time Olympic medalist Sushil Kumar in the 2021 Chhatrasal Stadium murder case, citing the seriousness of the charges, his conduct during investigation, and the risk of influencing witnesses.
The case stems from the alleged abduction and brutal assault of five men at Delhi’s Chhatrasal Stadium on the night of May 4–5, 2021, which led to the death of 23-year-old wrestler Sagar Dhankad. According to the prosecution, Sushil Kumar and his associates beat the victims with sticks and lathis, fired gunshots, and fled the scene. Weapons, bloodstained clothes, and a loaded firearm were recovered. Video footage from a co-accused’s phone allegedly captured Sushil Kumar attacking the victims.
Why the Supreme Court Intervened
In its detailed judgment, a bench of Justices Sanjay Karol and Prashant Kumar Mishra stressed that bail decisions in serious criminal cases must balance the constitutional right to liberty with public interest and the integrity of the justice process. The Court noted:
- Absconding: Sushil Kumar evaded arrest after the FIR was registered, prompting non-bailable warrants and a cash reward for information on his whereabouts.
- Influence on Witnesses: Out of 35 witnesses examined so far, 28 have turned hostile. The Court observed a pattern where witnesses changed their statements during periods when the accused was out on temporary bail.
- Grave Allegations: The Court described the incident as turning “the national capital into a criminal playground to settle scores,” underscoring the violent nature of the offence and recovery of weapons.
- Public Influence: As a celebrated sportsperson and Olympian, Sushil Kumar wields significant societal influence, raising concerns over his potential to intimidate witnesses and delay trial proceedings.
Bail Law Clarified
The Supreme Court distinguished between cancelling bail (due to post-release misconduct) and setting aside a bail order (when it was wrongly granted in the first place). Here, the Court found the High Court’s bail order to be flawed because it failed to consider critical factors like the accused’s absconding, the gravity of the offence, and the potential to interfere with the trial.
What Happens Next
The Court ordered Sushil Kumar to surrender within one week. However, it clarified that he may apply for bail again if there is a “change in circumstances,” which will be decided on its own merits by the appropriate court.
The trial against Sushil Kumar and 21 other accused is ongoing under charges of murder, abduction, assault, and Arms Act violations.