33 sexual harassment complaints against SAI staff and coaches: Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya
(Courtesy : @mansukhmandviya/Twitter)
Systemic concerns emerge as complaints highlight gaps in athlete safety and accountability.
India’s sporting ecosystem has come under renewed scrutiny after the Union government disclosed details of sexual harassment complaints within the system.
Responding to a question in the Lok Sabha, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya revealed that a total of 33 complaints of sexual harassment has been filed against personnel of the Sports Authority of India over the last 10 years.
The data shows that eight complaints were registered against administrative staff, while a significantly higher number, 25, were filed against coaches. The figures highlight the vulnerability of athletes, particularly in coach-athlete relationships where authority and access often overlap.
In administrative cases, most were closed without penalty. However, one case resulted in strict action, with “permanent withholding of full gratuity” under service rules. No appeals were filed in these cases.
In contrast, disciplinary action against coaches included two terminations, six suspensions, and six minor penalties. Notably, eight appeals were filed in coach-related cases, either by the complainants or the accused, indicating disputes over inquiry outcomes.
The minister clarified that no complaints were reported against officials directly under the sports ministry during this period. The disclosures were made in response to queries raised by Members of Parliament seeking a detailed breakdown of complaints across institutions, including SAI centres and National Sports Federations.
The government also reiterated that all recognised federations are required to comply with the Prevention of Sexual Harassment Act. As part of this mandate, Internal Complaints Committees have been constituted to address grievances.
While the presence of formal mechanisms is acknowledged, the data raises concerns about implementation, athlete awareness, and the effectiveness of redressal systems. The numbers underline the urgent need for stronger safeguards, transparent processes, and a culture that prioritises athlete safety across all levels of Indian sport.
These revelations underline persistent gaps in safeguarding mechanisms, reinforcing the need for stricter monitoring, faster investigations, and a more athlete-centric approach to complaint redressal across institutions.
How many complaints of sexual harassment has been raised against administrative staff at the Sports Authority of India?
According to Sports Minister, Mansukh Mandaviya, a total of 33 such complaints were filed in the last 10 years.
What actions were taken against those complaints?
The Sports Minister also informed in most cases against administrative staff, cases were closed without a penalty. While complaints against coaches included disciplinary actions, including two terminations, six suspensions and six minor penalties.
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Farzan is a journalist at Khel Now covering Indian Olympic sports and kabaddi. With five years of experience working with major sports organizations like Chennaiyin FC, Dabang Delhi K.C., Rajasthan Royals, and Yuva Kabaddi Series, he brings diverse expertise. Farzan has covered two Olympics, one Commonwealth Games, and one Asian Games, making his knowledge of Indian sports broad and versatile.