Did the NRAI Suspend Shooting Coach Ankush Bharadwaj After Sexual Assault Allegations?
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Synopsis
The NRAI has taken significant action against national shooting coach Ankush Bharadwaj, suspending him after serious sexual assault allegations from a young shooter. This incident raises critical concerns about safety and accountability in sports coaching. Discover the details surrounding this shocking case.
Key Takeaways
- Ankush Bharadwaj suspended by NRAI amid serious allegations.
- Legal action initiated by Haryana Police.
- Importance of athlete protection in sports.
- Need for accountability among sports coaches.
- The case highlights the need for vigilance in sports environments.
New Delhi, Jan 8 (NationPress) The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) has suspended national shooting coach Ankush Bharadwaj and issued him a show-cause notice in light of sexual assault allegations made by a 17-year-old national-level shooter, as stated by NRAI assistant secretary Rajiv Bhatia to IANS on Thursday.
The young female shooter claims that she was sexually assaulted by Bharadwaj at a hotel in Surajkund, Faridabad, during a national championship held in New Delhi last December.
Haryana Police have initiated action against Bharadwaj following an official complaint filed by the victim’s family. The FIR lodged in Faridabad indicates that the coach sexually assaulted the national-level shooter and allegedly threatened to ruin her career.
The reported incident took place on December 16 while the shooter was participating in a national-level competition at the Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range in Tughlakabad, South Delhi.
Police confirmed that a First Information Report (FIR) was filed based on a complaint from the girl's mother, and steps are being taken to gather CCTV footage from the hotel and collect statements from witnesses associated with the case.
A senior police officer mentioned that a case has been registered on Tuesday at the Women’s Police Station in NIT Faridabad under Section 6 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and Section 351(2) of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), given that the athlete is a minor.
The FIR elaborates that after the competition, the coach allegedly invited her to meet him in the lobby of the Surajkund Hotel in Faridabad to review her performance.
Upon her arrival, she was coerced into going to the coach’s room for a more thorough discussion. It is alleged that in the hotel room, the coach sexually assaulted her and threatened to destroy her career and endanger her family if she spoke about the incident.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize that incidents of this nature require a serious and immediate response. The allegations against coach Ankush Bharadwaj underscore a significant need for increased vigilance and protective measures within the realm of sports, especially for young athletes. The NRAI's prompt action reflects an understanding of the gravity of such accusations and the responsibility to ensure a safe environment for all participants.
NationPress
09/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the suspension of Ankush Bharadwaj?
Ankush Bharadwaj was suspended following serious sexual assault allegations made by a 17-year-old national-level shooter during a national championship event.
What actions have been taken by the police?
The Haryana Police have registered an FIR based on a complaint from the victim's family and are currently gathering evidence, including CCTV footage from the hotel.
What are the legal implications for Bharadwaj?
He faces charges under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and other relevant laws as the alleged victim is a minor.
How is the NRAI addressing this issue?
The NRAI has suspended Bharadwaj and issued a show-cause notice, indicating their commitment to addressing allegations of misconduct seriously.
What is the importance of this case?
This case raises significant concerns about the safety of young athletes in sports and the need for stringent measures to protect them from abuse.
