Minor State-Level Hockey Player Alleges Rape By Coach In Haridwar, Police Nab Accused

Haridwar: In Uttarakhand's Haridwar a minor female hockey player reportedly made accusations against her coach alleging rape. The accused coach has been identified as Bhanu Agarwal, against whom a case has been registered and a probe has been initiated. The incident has come up at a time when the state is preparing for the 38th National Games to be held in Uttarakhand.

According to the police, the victim is a state-level hockey player. A senior police official stated that after receiving the complaint, the police promptly arrested the coach, a resident of Champawat district. The police have since medically examined the victim and submitted an investigation report to the CO City.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, especially given the timing, with the National Games just around the corner. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the games, and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has already met with the Prime Minister in Delhi to extend an invitation.

As the police continue to investigate the matter, the people of Haridwar are left reeling from the disturbing allegations. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for increased vigilance and protection for vulnerable individuals, especially in the world of sports.

After the unfortunate incident at the Haridwar Hockey Stadium, Uttarakhand’s Sports Minister Rekha Arya visited the site to investigate the matter. She also travelled to Haridwar on Monday to meet with the victim and her family.

During her visit, Minister Arya assured the victim and her family that the state government would take strict action against the accused coach. She expressed strong support for the victim, ensuring that the government would stand by her throughout the process. The Uttarakhand Minister also confirmed that the coach's services, which had been contracted by the authorities, were terminated immediately following the incident.

In addition to the investigation, the state government is working with local authorities to improve the safety measures for female athletes in the region. Haridwar’s District Sports Officer Shabali Gurung highlighted the seriousness of the issue, noting that discussions are taking place with the government to ensure the safety of women participating in sports events.