Hockey Umpire Sent Home from Asian Games Amid Sexual Misconduct Allegations

Controversy Surrounds Indian Hockey Official

In a significant setback for Indian hockey, umpire and technical official Gurinder Singh Sangha has been sent back from the Asian Games in Japan following multiple allegations of sexual misconduct. Reports indicate that he misbehaved with a female hockey official from Malaysia and a hotel employee during his time in Nagoya.

A reliable source from Hockey India (HI) confirmed that Sangha returned home two days ago after a complaint was lodged against him by the Malaysian official. The source stated, "Yes, Sangha has been sent back home after a sexual harassment complaint was filed against him by a female official from Malaysia; that is what we know."

When questioned about potential actions against Sangha post-Games, the official mentioned that HI would take necessary steps based on a comprehensive report from the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF).

The official emphasized, "Definitely, we will take strict action against him if AHF gives an adverse report. There is no question about it. He will not be spared if he is guilty."

Umpires and technical officials for hockey events at the Asian Games are appointed by the AHF.

This is not the first instance of complaints against Sangha. In 2025, during the Hockey India League in Ranchi, a female umpire had also accused him, leading HI to form a three-member committee for investigation. However, the committee reportedly found no substantial evidence against him.

An official from the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) clarified that the incident does not involve IOA or HI, as the AHF is responsible for appointing officials.

"IOA and HI have got nothing to do with it; it’s AHF who appoints umpires and technical officials in Asian Games," the IOA official stated.

AHF officials in Nagoya declined to comment on the matter.

This incident adds to a series of misconduct allegations in Indian hockey, as earlier this year, HI dismissed a member of the support staff from the national women’s team following harassment claims.