India U-18 Men's Hockey Staff Removed Over Sexual Misconduct Claims - Report

Last Updated:May 16, 2026, 13:06 IST

Indian hockey faces another safeguarding controversy after a U-18 men’s staff member was removed over misconduct allegations.

Indian hockey has been rocked by yet another safeguarding controversy, with a member of the India U-18 men’s coaching staff removed from camp following allegations of sexual misconduct.

According to multiple reports, support staff member Sudhir Golla was asked to leave the Indian setup in Bhopal on May 16, the same day the Indian U-18 side was scheduled to face Australia at home.

The latest episode has only deepened concerns around player safety and governance within Hockey India, which is now facing mounting criticism after a string of similar controversies over the past six months.

Hockey India Confirms Removal

An official order dated May 11, reportedly accessed by The Tribune, stated that Golla had already been removed from his role at the Eklavya Hockey Centre in Ranchi before action was taken again in Bhopal.

A woman coach has since been appointed to take over his responsibilities at the centre.

Hockey India later confirmed the development in a statement.

“Sudhir Golla, who was part of the Indian sub-junior men’s hockey team’s support staff, has been removed from the coaching camp in Bhopal with immediate effect by HI after it came to the federation’s notice that he had been removed from Eklavya Hockey Centre following complaints from players," Hockey India said.

“Player safeguarding remains a top priority for us and we remain committed to ensuring a safe and secure environment for all athletes."

Pattern Of Controversies Raises Questions

The incident marks the fourth safeguarding-related controversy linked to Hockey India in just six months.

Back in November 2025, a junior women’s hockey coach reportedly had his contract terminated after allegations of sexual misconduct surfaced shortly before the FIH Hockey Junior World Cup in Santiago, Chile.

Then, in December, senior women’s team coach Harendra Singh stepped down after players allegedly wrote to the Sports Ministry accusing him of misconduct and questioning his methods.

More recently, in April 2026, another Hockey India staff member was accused of sexually harassing women officials and coaches.

The recurring nature of these allegations has intensified scrutiny on Hockey India’s internal systems and safeguarding mechanisms.

News sports hockey India U-18 Men's Hockey Staff Removed Over Sexual Misconduct Claims - Report

Read More