Asunta Lakra, a former captain of the Indian women’s hockey team, has made a passionate appeal to the Sports Ministry, urging immediate action against what she describes as systemic protection of sexual harassment and intimidation faced by female athletes in the sport.
This serious allegation has been denied by the national hockey federation. In a strongly worded letter directed to the Sports Ministry, the Sports Authority of India (SAI), and other officials, Lakra claimed that those accused of misconduct are being shielded while those who voice their concerns are met with intimidation and retaliation.
“I am writing not just as a former captain and a member of Hockey India’s Executive Board, but as an Indian woman who chose to speak out against the harassment of young female athletes,” Lakra stated. She emphasized her commitment to protecting future generations of players, recalling her own experiences while representing India for over a decade.
She highlighted her report to the Jharkhand government regarding allegations of sexual harassment by Sudhir Gola at the Eklavya Hockey Academy in Ranchi, which led to a crisis of faith in the system. Following her complaint, Lakra reported facing threats and a smear campaign aimed at discrediting her.
“Instead of safeguarding those who raise concerns, I was subjected to intimidation. This issue extends beyond one individual; it involves those in power who allegedly protect such individuals,” she expressed in her letter. Despite Gola’s suspension, Lakra alleged he continued to intimidate young players at the academy.
She also accused Hockey India Secretary General Bholanath Singh of threatening her during a phone call, insisting that he could not be removed from his position. “If I remain silent, nothing will change, yet I face threats for standing up for women athletes,” Lakra added, mentioning that her husband was also threatened.
In response, Singh dismissed Lakra’s claims as politically motivated theatrics ahead of the upcoming Hockey Jharkhand elections. “I have never threatened anyone, and there is a conspiracy to defame us,” he stated. Elections for Hockey Jharkhand are set for July 19, but Lakra clarified that her allegations are not related to the polls.
“We were not informed about the elections until later. I am not a candidate, but we want hockey to be led by those who truly understand the sport,” she asserted. Lakra called for an end to the mistreatment of players, questioning whether athletes are merely used for promotional purposes.
She criticized the management of Hockey Jharkhand, claiming it is run by individuals with minimal connection to hockey. Singh countered this by highlighting the association’s achievements under his leadership.
Support from Hockey India President
Meanwhile, Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey acknowledged Lakra’s contributions to the sport, stating he would seek an amicable resolution to the matter. “Asunta Lakra is a valuable asset to Indian hockey. She has bravely highlighted serious issues within Jharkhand Hockey. The Jharkhand Government has acted against Sudhir Gola, and we have removed him from the Under-18 National Team,” Tirkey remarked.
He emphasized that Gola is not affiliated with SAI or Hockey India and urged the Jharkhand Government to take appropriate legal action. Regarding the allegations against Singh, Tirkey expressed his intention to mediate between both parties to clarify any misunderstandings, reaffirming Hockey India’s commitment to the dignity and respect of women in the sport.