IOA Sets Up Inquiry Panel Over Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Hockey India Secretary Bhola Nath Singh 

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has today, September 9, 2026, announced the formation of a high-powered, four-member independent committee to probe grave allegations of sexual harassment and institutional intimidation levelled against Hockey India (HI) secretary general Bhola Nath Singh. This significant move comes after a directive issued by the Union Sports Ministry in July 2026. Indian Hockey Team to Return to Iconic Blue Jersey for Asian Games 2026 After Saffron Kit Controversy.

The allegations were brought forth by former India women's hockey captain Asunta Lakra, who is also a member of Hockey India's Executive Board. Lakra claims that Bhola Nath Singh threatened and harassed her after she raised concerns regarding alleged sexual harassment of young female players in Jharkhand by local hockey coach Sudhir Golla.

Ministry Intervention and Committee Formation

The Union Sports Ministry's intervention in July stemmed from Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey's request for an external probe. Tirkey had expressed concerns about the impartiality of an internal inquiry, noting that both the complainant, Asunta Lakra, and the respondent, Bhola Nath Singh, are members of the Hockey India Executive Board. The Ministry mandated the IOA to establish an independent panel to ensure a fair, transparent, and unbiased investigation into the serious claims.

IOA President P. T. Usha formally communicated the committee's formation to Hockey India, instructing the federation to extend its full cooperation and bear all associated expenses, including the honorarium for members, travel, accommodation, and other incidental costs.

The Independent Inquiry Committee

The newly formed committee is comprised of distinguished individuals from legal and sporting backgrounds:

• Chairperson: Justice (retd) Deepa Sharma
• Member: Vandana Rao (former track and field athlete)
• Member: Mamta Kharab (former India women's hockey captain)
• Member: Sitwat Nabi (lawyer)

This composition aims to ensure a thorough and impartial examination of the allegations.

Counter Allegations and Denials

While Bhola Nath Singh has vehemently denied Asunta Lakra's allegations, calling them baseless, coach Sudhir Golla has also refuted the accusations against him, stating his readiness to face a fair inquiry. PR Sreejesh Questions Indian Hockey Management After 2026 World Cup Failure.

Adding another layer to the complex situation, Asunta Lakra herself is currently facing a separate inquiry by Hockey India's Ethics Committee. This inquiry was initiated after young player Albela Rani Toppo accused Lakra of threatening her career and national team selection. Lakra has dismissed these counter-allegations as false and motivated, attributing them to continued intimidation and retaliation.

As the independent committee commences its vital work, the focus will be on ensuring justice and transparency in a case that has cast a shadow over Indian hockey administration. The sports community awaits the committee's findings, hoping for swift and decisive action to uphold the integrity of the sport and safeguard its athletes.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 09, 2026 11:45 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).