Meghalaya Cricket Association Takes Action Amid Sexual Harassment Allegations

The Meghalaya Cricket Association has acted decisively by terminating the head coach and assistant manager of its under-23 women's team amid serious allegations of sexual harassment. An investigation by the Meghalaya State Commission for Women revealed troubling incidents, including inappropriate comments and physical assault. The honorary secretary has also been suspended for failing to address the complaints. MCA president James Sangma has reached out to the BCCI for further action, emphasizing the need for accountability and support for the affected players. This situation highlights the urgent need for reforms in sports organizations to ensure a safe environment for all athletes.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 29, 2026, 09:54 IST

Serious Allegations Lead to Dismissals in Meghalaya Cricket

Apprising BCCI, MCA president, James Sangma in a letter termed the incident as a deeply disturbing development.

SHILLONG, June 29: In response to serious allegations of sexual harassment, the Meghalaya Cricket Association (MCA) has terminated the head coach and assistant manager of its under-23 women's team, while also suspending its honorary secretary.

James Sangma, the president of MCA, described the situation as profoundly troubling in a letter to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

The Meghalaya State Commission for Women (MSCW) conducted an investigation that revealed instances of sexual harassment and negligence within the organization.

The inquiry found that during a tournament in Agartala last December, head coach Hemant Roy and assistant manager Sanjay Mondal made inappropriate comments regarding the players' appearances and used offensive language during team meetings.

Furthermore, the assistant manager was accused of physically assaulting a female cricketer in his hotel room in Agartala. This investigation was carried out under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013.

Rayonald Kharkamni, the honorary secretary, has been suspended for not addressing the complaints and for attempting to cover up the incidents.

Sangma's letter to BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating, “A young woman cricketer was physically assaulted in a hotel room by the man entrusted with managing the team. The head coach made comments about the players’ bodies, and there were attempts to intimidate the complainants into silence when they reported the incidents.”

He has requested the BCCI to take further action and provide guidance based on the MSCW's findings.

Staff Correspondent