National-level sailor accuses ex-SAI coach RK Sharma of harassment

There is already an allegation of inappropriate behaviour against the former chief coach by a cyclist.

The Sports Authority of India (SAI) has been at the centre of controversy lately. Former chief coach RK Sharma is again under scrutiny following further developments in the story, a day after allegations of harassment by a female cyclist. A national-level female sailor has now filed allegations against RK Sharma, despite the SAI terminating his contract. She claimed that he left her uncomfortable during their trip to Germany.

It is not the first time the sailor has reached out to the authorities, according to reports from PTI. The Yachting Federation of India (YAI) reportedly received several complaints from her, but they did not respond. The SAI is now aware of the matter. The SAI has requested a response from the Yachting Federation. In the midst of such serious allegations, they have asked for clarification on such neglect by the end of the day.

"The SAI has received a complaint from a female sailor that a coach is making her uncomfortable during a foreign exposure tour of Germany. The sailor claimed that she had earlier approached the federation but after getting no response from them, she knocked on SAI's doors," an SAI source told PTI.

"SAI has sought a report from the Yachting Federation of India on this serious matter," he added.

"The camp was proposed and organised by the Yachting Association of India and funded by SAI through ACTC, as is the norm. The coach in question has been appointed by the federation and was included in the contingent as per the proposal of the Federation," the source said.

Sports Authority has already terminated the contract

The SAI will take strict action against the coach if they find him guilty. In addition, the athlete stated that the coach did impose "mental pressure" during training sessions. The athlete also confirmed that she has been the victim of sexual harassment. 

RK Shamra has already lost the contract because of allegations made by the female national level cyclist on Wednesday. The incident occurred during their exposure trip to Slovenia. Sharma was guilty in the probe by the Sports Authority of India. A further allegation puts a stain on this three-time Olympian.

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