Asunta Lakra: Ethics inquiry launched by Hockey India after a fact-finding investigation was initiated into complaints against the former India women’s hockey captain and Executive Board member. Hockey India’s Ethics Committee, chaired by Justice (Retd.) Raghvendra Kumar, has asked Asunta Lakra to respond to two complaints filed by Jharkhand player Albela Rani Toppo by July 30, 2026. This follows a directive from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports asking the Indian Olympic Association to form a neutral committee to probe allegations made by Asunta Lakra against Hockey India secretary general Bhola Nath Singh and former coach Sudhir Golla.
Lakra has accused Singh of threatening her after she raised concerns about the alleged protection of Golla by Hockey Jharkhand. She also claimed Golla intimidated women players following sexual harassment allegations against him. Both Singh and Golla have denied these allegations. The ministry has also sought a clarification from Hockey India regarding the matter.
Reacting to the notice, Asunta Lakra stated she would abide by the sports ministry’s directions and present her version before the committee, but described the notice as an attempt to intimidate her. Previously, the ministry had directed Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey to place Lakra’s complaint before its Internal Complaints Committee under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act. Tirkey then requested an independent inquiry into the allegations.
Hockey India vice-president Asima Ali extended support to Asunta Lakra, vowing to monitor the federation’s handling of the matter closely. She warned of including any unfair practices in her ongoing petition before the Delhi High Court. This case underscores ongoing tensions within Indian hockey administration, highlighting the need for transparent and fair processes.
