Hockey India In Turmoil: Repeat Sexual Harassment Allegations Raise Doubts Over Governance - Report

Last Updated:April 04, 2026, 13:07 IST

A senior Hockey India official faces renewed sexual harassment and misconduct allegations, raising questions about the governance of the sport and the lack of accountability.

Indian hockey finds itself in yet another troubling moment.

A senior official from Hockey India is facing serious allegations of sexual harassment, misconduct, and abuse of authority — raising fresh concerns about governance and accountability in the sport.

Anonymous Complaint Sent to Top Authorities

According to a report by TOI, an anonymous email detailing the allegations was sent to key figures, including the Director General of the Sports Authority of India, Kalpana Sharma (Director, SAI Internal Complaints Committee), and the president of Hockey India, Dilip Tirkey.

The email outlines a series of serious accusations:

• Sexual harassment and inappropriate conduct towards female officials, coaches and players
• Forcing individuals into inappropriate personal interactions, including repeated unwanted calls and threats of damaging careers
• Demanding money under the pretext of coaching courses or professional opportunities
• Seeking unsolicited and inappropriate photographs

What makes the situation more alarming is that this is not the first time the official has faced such accusations.

According to the latest complaint filed in April 2026, the timeline stretches back years:

• 2016–2023: Multiple complaints were allegedly raised internally
• 2023: A formal complaint led to the official’s resignation
• September 2025: The same official was reinstated
• March 2026: He appeared in official event listings again
• April 2026: A fresh complaint was filed

Voices From Within The System

The complaint also includes testimonies that paint a deeply concerning picture.

One umpire alleged that earlier complaints were ignored. Another stated, “He used to ask me for money… and for pictures. However, when I raised the issue, I was sidelined."

These accounts have intensified calls for independent investigations and stronger whistleblower protection mechanisms.

Indian Hockey’s Tainted History

Unfortunately, this is not an isolated episode.

Indian hockey has seen multiple controversies in recent years:

• 2025: A junior women’s team coach faced misconduct allegations during overseas tours but was later cleared
• 2022–2026: Sandeep Singh was charged with a sexual harassment case
• 2026: A junior coach in Haryana was arrested in a case involving a minor player

Bigger Questions on Accountability

This latest episode adds to growing concerns around player safety, power dynamics, and institutional accountability in Indian sport.

The complainant has urged SAI to ensure an independent probe and stronger safeguards. With the matter now public, pressure is mounting on Hockey India to respond decisively.

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