Neeraj Chopra, Sumit Antil allege harassment by coach Naval Singh; SAI launches inquiry

Complaints against javelin coach Naval Singh gain momentum as fellow athletes extend support and authorities begin inquiry into alleged misconduct.

Indian athletics has been thrust into controversy after Olympic gold medallist Neeraj Chopra and Paralympic champion Sumit Antil alleged harassment against javelin coach Naval Singh of harassment and verbal abuse, prompting the Sports Authority of India (SAI) to initiate a formal inquiry.

The issue came to light after Antil, a two-time Paralympic gold medallist, filed a complaint detailing instances of “mental harassment” and alleged repeated use of abusive language by the Dronacharya awardee coach.

According to reports, the complaint outlines a pattern of behaviour that went beyond strict coaching methods, with claims that the coach’s conduct became increasingly hostile and personal over time.

Chopra, India’s first Olympic gold medallist in athletics, has extended his support to Antil’s allegations. Sources indicate that several athletes training within the national setup have echoed similar concerns, lending weight to the complaint and intensifying scrutiny on the coaching environment.

Responding to the development, SAI confirmed that it has taken cognisance of the complaint and is in the process of examining the matter. The body stated that it is coordinating with the Athletics Federation of India to ensure due process is followed. However, officials clarified that Naval Singh is not a direct employee of SAI but is associated with national coaching camps through the federation.

The allegations include claims of repeated verbal abuse and behaviour that allegedly affected athletes’ mental well-being.

In some accounts, Antil has suggested that the situation had escalated to a point where formal intervention became necessary, highlighting concerns about athlete safety and dignity within elite training systems.

The controversy has sparked reactions across the Indian sporting fraternity. Vinesh Phogat publicly voiced her support for Chopra and Antil, calling for strict action and greater accountability to protect athletes. Her remarks have further amplified calls for systemic reform and stronger safeguards against misconduct in sports institutions.

With two of India’s most celebrated track-and-field athletes at the forefront, the case has once again brought attention to the need for robust grievance redressal mechanisms and transparent oversight in Indian sports. As the inquiry progresses, the outcome is expected to have wider implications for athlete welfare, coaching standards, and institutional responsibility within the country’s sporting ecosystem.

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