Asunta Lakra Calls for Action Against Harassment in Indian Hockey

Urgent Appeal to Sports Authorities

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 refuted by the national hockey federation.

In a strongly worded letter directed to the Sports Ministry, the Sports Authority of India (SAI), and officials from the Indian Olympic Association, including president PT Usha, Lakra claimed that those accused of misconduct are being shielded while those who voice their concerns face intimidation and retaliation.

A Call for Change

Lakra expressed her concerns not just as a former captain and member of Hockey India's Executive Board, but as an Indian woman who felt compelled to speak out against the harassment of young female athletes. She reflected on her decade-long career wearing the India jersey, emphasizing the responsibility senior players have to protect future generations.

She highlighted her report to the Jharkhand Government regarding allegations of sexual harassment by Sudhir Gola at the Eklavya Hockey Academy in Ranchi, stating that the aftermath has severely shaken her trust in the system.

Facing Intimidation

Lakra, who represented India in the 2006 and 2010 Commonwealth Games, claimed that after raising these issues, she encountered threats and a smear campaign against her. She noted that instead of safeguarding those who raised concerns, an intimidation campaign was launched against her.

She detailed how, despite Gola's suspension by the Jharkhand Government, he allegedly returned to the academy to intimidate young players into retracting their complaints.

Threats and Retaliation

Lakra accused Hockey India Secretary General Bholanath Singh of threatening her during a phone conversation, instructing her to 'stay within my limits.' She recounted Singh's assertion that he could not be removed from his position, regardless of the governing bodies.

She expressed her determination to advocate for women athletes, despite receiving threats, and mentioned that her husband was also threatened. Lakra recounted Gola's boastful claims about the impunity he felt in Jharkhand.

Denial from Hockey India

In response, Singh dismissed Lakra's allegations as politically motivated theatrics ahead of the upcoming Hockey Jharkhand elections, asserting that he never threatened anyone and that there is a conspiracy to tarnish their reputation.

Elections for Hockey Jharkhand are set for July 19, but Lakra refuted claims that her allegations were tied to the electoral process, stating that she was unaware of the elections until later.

A Plea for the Future of Hockey

Lakra urged authorities to protect the integrity of the sport, questioning whether athletes who dedicate themselves to the country are merely seen as tools for publicity.

She criticized the management of Hockey Jharkhand, claiming it is run by individuals with minimal ties to the sport, and pointed out that the current general secretary had previously worked as a caterer during her playing days.

Support from Hockey India President

Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey acknowledged Lakra's contributions to the sport, stating that he would work towards an amicable resolution of the issues raised. He emphasized the importance of women's dignity and respect within the sport.

Tirkey confirmed that the Jharkhand Government had acted against Sudhir Gola and expressed hope that appropriate measures would be taken against him. He assured that Hockey India is committed to addressing the allegations against Bholanath Singh and ensuring a respectful environment for women.