Big allegation against the coach of the hockey team (Photo: Debajyoti Chakraborty/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
The Union Sports Ministry has ordered an investigation into allegations of molestation against a coach associated with the Indian junior women’s hockey team. This step has been taken a few days before the team leaves for Santiago, Chile. The 2025 FIH Hockey Junior World Cup is to be organized in Santiago, Chile from December 1, in which the team has to go there to participate.
When did the incident happen?
The alleged abuse occurred during one of the women’s team’s three overseas tours of Argentina, Belgium, the Netherlands in June, and Australia in September. It is believed that a member of the women’s team was found going to the coach’s room several times.
Sports Ministry took cognizance of the matter
This matter was brought to the notice of Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, after which he has ordered an investigation into the matter. A source in the Sports Ministry told The Tribune that this serious matter has been brought to their notice and hence an inquiry has been ordered. At present, they do not want to take any decision in haste because it is necessary to gather complete information before reaching the conclusion. According to the law, the names of the coach, the complainant and the player concerned cannot be revealed. The Prevention of Sexual Harassment Act requires strict confidentiality to be maintained regarding the identity of the complainant, accused and witnesses.
What did Hockey India say?
Hockey India general secretary Bhola Nath Singh told The Tribune that he was hearing about such an issue for the first time. He said that he cannot comment on a subject which has not been brought before Hockey India. He further said that we will wait for the report of the ministry. However, ministry officials have not yet contacted us on this sensitive issue.