Shooting Federation Takes Strong Stand After Minor Assault Allegations
A recent case involving a national-level shooting coach has sent shockwaves through Indian sports. The coach faces allegations of sexually assaulting a minor shooter. This disturbing incident has raised serious questions about athlete safety within sports training environments.
The sports community now demands stricter protective measures and greater accountability. People want stronger safeguards for young athletes who dedicate their lives to representing India.
NRAI President Assures Female Shooters of Complete Safety
National Rifle Association of India president Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo addressed these concerns directly on Monday. He provided firm assurances to female shooters across the country.
Deo declared shooting remains a safe sport for all participants. He promised the federation would prevent similar incidents through immediate action.
The federation plans to strengthen its Standard Operating Procedures significantly. These enhanced protocols will govern safety and security for female athletes at shooting ranges and team accommodations.
Zero Tolerance Policy and Immediate Actions
Deo made his statements during the UP Prometheans franchise launch for the Shooting League of India. The league competition will run from February 16 to 26 in 2026.
He delivered a clear warning to everyone within the shooting community. "I want to be very sure that anyone, be it the coach, official or administrator within the NRAI, would face action if found involved in such malpractices," Deo told reporters.
The NRAI president emphasized there is absolutely no place for such incidents in shooting sports. He described the federation's commitment to maintaining a safe, nurturing ecosystem for female athletes.
Deo urged immediate reporting of any concerns directly to NRAI authorities. He promised swift and just action against offenders. "Such people don't have any place in our ecosystem," he stated firmly.
Existing Protocols and Their Enforcement
The federation already maintains clear Standard Operating Procedures regarding athlete safety. These rules explicitly prohibit shooters from visiting rooms of officials, coaches, or members of the opposite sex during national team participation.
Deo confirmed the NRAI will enforce these protocols with strict punitive measures. "Whoever defies our SOPs, strict punitive action will be taken by the NRAI. We have a zero-tolerance policy towards such incidents," he explained.
The federation acknowledges the need for continuous improvement. Officials plan to further strengthen existing safety protocols in response to recent events.
Details of the Current Case and Federation Response
Regarding the specific incident involving the 17-year-old shooter, Deo revealed an important detail. Neither the NRAI nor its Internal Complaints Committee received any formal complaint from the victim.
The federation learned about the allegations only after police filed a First Information Report. Haryana police authorities now lead the investigation into the matter.
Despite the absence of a direct complaint, NRAI took immediate disciplinary action. The federation suspended the concerned individual immediately.
Officials placed the coach on leave without pay pending investigation completion. This decisive action demonstrates the federation's commitment to athlete protection regardless of procedural technicalities.
The sports community watches closely as this case develops. Many hope it will lead to permanent improvements in safety protocols across all Indian sports federations.
