Wednesday, 08 January 2025 | PURNIMA BISHT | DEHRADUN
The cases of alleged sexual assault by coaches in Uttarakhand set back the progress of women in sports. Parents, coaches and experts said so after a State-level hockey coach from Uttarakhand was arrested in Haridwar on Monday for allegedly raping a female teenager player during a selection camp for the State team ahead of the 38th National Games in Dehradun.
A similar incident came to light in 2023 when former Dehradun Cricket Association coach Narendra Shah was accused of sexually harassing women cricketers. With Uttarakhand hosting the National Games, the government has been expressing optimism about the event’s potential to boost sports infrastructure in the state. Officials have been claiming that the National Games will help foster a stronger sports culture and inspire children and youth to pursue careers in athletics in the State.
However, recent cases of sexual assault by coaches threaten to undermine these efforts, posing a significant setback to the progress of women in sports. Such incidents not only erode trust but also discourage parents from allowing their daughters to participate in sports, stalling the momentum needed to truly empower young athletes in the State. Such incidents make it harder for young girls to pursue their athletic dreams or leave home for training. Many parents also shared their views on this sensitive subject.
Local resident Ankit Sharma said, “I will not stop my daughter from pursuing her dreams but these incidents make it incredibly difficult for us to feel at ease. We are proud of her passion for sports but after hearing about these cases, we are constantly worried about her safety. She is just 12 years old but it is hard to trust coaches and sports teachers now, knowing such things can happen.” Housewife Priyanka Adhikari said, “Being a daughter’s parents is not an easy task in these days considering such heinous acts. I have a teenage daughter who loves basketball. I will not discourage her from following her passion for sports but every time she heads off for training, my mind is filled with anxiety. Such incidents make it difficult to trust the very people who are supposed to guide and protect her. I want her to succeed but I cannot ignore the fear that comes with sending her into these environments.”
The former director general of police of Uttarakhand and vice chancellor of Sports University of Haryana, Ashok Kumar condemned such incidents as deeply deplorable, emphasising their devastating impact on women athletes, particularly those from remote areas of the State. He stated, “Such coaches should face strict punishment and be permanently banned from training athletes to ensure they do not pose a threat to others. While only a small number of coaches may be involved in such behaviour, they must be held accountable to set an example for the rest.” Former chief football coach of Sports Authorities of India (SAI) Dayal Singh Rawat also expressed his concerns, noting that such incidents create a sense of disbelief among parents, who become increasingly wary of entrusting their daughters to coaches. “The role of a coach becomes more crucial than that of the parents when children are sent for training. It is the coach’s responsibility to ensure their physical and mental safety, in addition to providing proper sports training,” he said.
He stressed the importance of psychological support for athletes during training sessions to help maintain their mental well-being. Rawat also urged teenage athletes to stay vigilant and report any inappropriate behaviour. “While it is understandably difficult for a minor athlete to confront a coach or adult in such situations, it is essential that they do so. No one should be allowed to take advantage of anyone in sports. Strict action must be taken against those involved in such heinous acts,” he said.
