Background of 2021 Sagar Dhanakhad murder and Sushil Kumar's involvement

On the night of May 4-5, 2021, Junior National Wrestling Champion Sagar Dhanakhad was abducted from the Chahtarsal Stadium area in Delhi. Several assailants forced him and his teammates into a vehicle, later bringing them back to the stadium where they were beaten with sticks, batons, and hockey sticks.

The assault resulted in severe head injuries for Dhanakhad, who later died in hospital despite medical intervention. A post‑mortem report indicated a heavy object caused a fatal brain injury. Investigators identified former Olympic wrestler Sushil Kumar as the main accused, alleging he orchestrated the kidnapping and the subsequent violent assault.

The case led to the formation of a special police cell, which arrested Kumar on May 23, 2021. Since then, he has faced charges of murder, criminal conspiracy, intimidation, and illegal possession of weapons, as well as violations under the Arms Act. The investigation continues to uncover the full extent of the conspiracy.