The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has constituted a four-member independent inquiry committee headed by retired High Court judge Deepa Sharma to investigate sexual harassment allegations levelled against Hockey India secretary Bhola Nath Singh by former Indian women’s hockey team captain Asunta Lakra. The committee has been set up following a directive from the Sports Ministry and also includes former track-and-field athlete Vandana Rao, former women’s hockey team captain Mamta Kharb and lawyer Sitwat Nabi.
Lakra alleges threats
Lakra, who is also a member of Hockey India’s Executive Board, has accused Singh of threatening her after she raised objections over the alleged sexual harassment of girls in Jharkhand by hockey coach Sudhir Golla. The allegations have now prompted an independent inquiry, with the panel expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the complaint and the issues raised by the former India captain.
Hockey India told to cooperate
The IOA has directed Hockey India to extend full cooperation to the inquiry committee and ensure that all relevant documents, information and other assistance sought by the panel are provided in a timely manner. Hockey India has also been asked to bear expenses related to the committee’s honorarium, travel, accommodation and other incidental costs.
In a letter to Hockey India, IOA president PT Usha said the national federation should provide the committee with all material and assistance required to conduct the inquiry. The constitution of the independent panel follows the Sports Ministry’s intervention in the matter and puts the allegations against the Hockey India secretary under formal scrutiny.