Delay in Inquiry into Allegations Against Hockey India Secretary Raises Concerns

The independent inquiry into allegations against Hockey India secretary Bholanath Singh, initiated by former women's hockey captain Asuntha Lakra, has yet to commence due to funding issues. Despite the committee's formation two months ago, delays in releasing necessary funds have left Lakra frustrated and seeking immediate action. She has called upon key officials, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to ensure the investigation begins promptly. Lakra's plea emphasizes her desire for a fair and impartial inquiry, highlighting the urgency of addressing her serious allegations. Read on to learn more about this developing situation in Indian sports.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 7, 2026, 15:27 IST

Inquiry Committee Yet to Convene

The independent inquiry committee established by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to look into the claims made by former captain of the India women's hockey team, Asuntha Lakra, has not yet convened its first meeting. This delay comes two months after the committee's formation, attributed to Hockey India's failure to provide the necessary funds to commence the investigation.

On September 10, the IOA formed a four-member committee led by retired High Court judge Deepa Sharma to investigate allegations of harassment and intimidation against Hockey India secretary Bholanath Singh, as reported by Lakra.

The committee, which was set up following a directive from the sports ministry, also includes former athlete Vandana Rao, ex-women's hockey team captain Mamta Kharb, and lawyer Sitwat Nabi.

Lakra, who serves on Hockey India's executive board, has accused Singh of threatening her after she raised concerns about the alleged sexual harassment of young girls in Jharkhand by local coach Sudhir Golla.

Hockey India was instructed to manage all payments related to the committee's honorarium, travel, accommodation, and other expenses. However, sources indicate that the committee has yet to receive the required funds.

On October 8 and 10, Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey reportedly sent emails to treasurer Shekhar Manoharan, secretary general Bholanath Singh, and the finance department, urging them to release the funds without delay.

Sources familiar with the situation mentioned that the committee's chairperson has already submitted invoices for professional fees and other expenses, including those for a legal assistant.

On October 29, Tirkey reached out to IOA president PT Usha, the sports secretary, and the sports ministry to inform them about the ongoing delay in fund disbursement.

Lakra has expressed her frustration over the slow progress, calling for an immediate and unbiased investigation.

"The swift formation of the inquiry committee gave me hope for justice, but two months later, I still haven't been called to present my case. Why is the investigation not underway?" Lakra questioned.

"I sought justice, not an endless wait. I want a fair investigation, not mere promises," she added.

Lakra has also appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, and IOA president PT Usha to ensure that the inquiry commences without any further delays.

"I urge Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modiji, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandviya ji, and IOA president PT Usha ji to ensure that the investigation process begins with the same urgency that was shown in addressing my complaint and forming the inquiry committee," she stated.

"I have three simple requests – for the committee to meet, for me to be heard, and for justice to be served through an impartial inquiry," concluded the former captain.