Hockey India Faces Scrutiny Over Allegations of Misconduct and Intimidation
Ministry Calls for Investigation into Allegations
The Sports Ministry has directed Hockey India to conduct a thorough investigation into the claims made by former captain and current selector Asunta Lakra, as per the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC).
Asunta has alleged that Bhola Nath Singh, the secretary general of Hockey India, threatened her with repercussions for bringing to light incidents of sexual harassment involving a coach, Sudhir Golla, in Jharkhand.
In her complaint, Asunta requested the formation of an independent ICC to address the allegations of sexual harassment and institutional intimidation. However, the ministry's correspondence only referred the issue to Hockey India's ICC.
This investigation is expected to be closely monitored by the ministry, which hopes for a comprehensive inquiry that includes formal hearings and a complete report in accordance with the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2023.
A source from the sports ministry expressed, 'We are taking this matter very seriously. We will closely observe the developments and will take necessary actions if required,' as reported by a local media outlet on Tuesday.
This incident marks the fourth case in recent months where Hockey India has either failed to investigate or hastily dismissed serious allegations.
Golla was dismissed from his position as coach at the Eklavya Training Centre in Ranchi following complaints of negligence and sexual misconduct. Despite Asunta raising concerns during an executive board meeting, Hockey India did not pursue an inquiry.
In November of last year, a junior women's hockey coach's contract was not renewed after allegations of sexual misconduct emerged just before the 2025 FIH Hockey Junior World Cup in Santiago, Chile.
In December 2025, Harendra Singh, the coach of the senior women's hockey team, resigned amid allegations of misconduct after senior team members submitted a signed letter to the ministry. Additionally, in April of this year, a Hockey India staff member faced accusations of sexual harassment against female officials and coaches.
Allegations of Intimidation and Institutional Protection
In her complaint, Asunta detailed not only the personal threats made by Bhola Nath Singh but also mentioned that Sudhir Golla, despite being suspended, attempted to coerce female hockey players into retracting their complaints.
Asunta stated, 'I learned that Sudhir Gola had sexually harassed female players at the Eklavya Hockey Academy in Ranchi. It was my responsibility to protect young athletes, so I reported the issue to the Government of Jharkhand, as Gola was a government employee. Instead of receiving support, I faced intimidation. On May 9, 2026, Hockey India Secretary General Bholanath Singh threatened me for informing the authorities, telling me to 'stay in my limits' and warned that 'no one can remove me from Hockey Jharkhand, Hockey India, or World Hockey.'
She further expressed concern that despite serious allegations against Golla, he continued to hold positions of authority. After his suspension, he reportedly entered the academy hostel, gathered female players, and tried to pressure them into withdrawing their complaints. Such actions raise significant concerns regarding the safety of athletes and the effectiveness of the protective measures in place.