Uttarakhand, April 9: A disturbing case from Uttarakhand’s Haridwar has brought attention to athlete safety, after a 14-year-old minor female player accused her coach of sexual assault during a training camp. The victim, a student at a well-known school was alleged to have been forced into the act by her coach who threatened to kill her if she told anyone.
The alleged incident took place during a sports training camp in Haridwar, where multiple athletes gathered for practice sessions. According to reports the coach called the minor to his room and sexually assaulted her. The incident reportedly came to light after the victim confided in a trusted individual, who informed her family and authorities.
The accused coach had reportedly come from Haryana to train young athletes in archery. Initial reports suggest that he had been grooming and targeting the victim for several months before the incident. Investigators are also probing whether similar incidents occurred with other trainees.
Haridwar police registered a case promptly after receiving the complaint. The accused has been arrested and booked under rape charges and provisions of the POCSO Act. Medical tests and evidence collection have been completed, and further investigation is underway. Authorities have taken swift action by removing the coach from his position. Officials are also reviewing safety arrangements at sports camps to prevent such incidents in the future.
The case has triggered concern among parents and sports authorities. Experts are calling for stricter background checks, better supervision, and safer lodging facilities for young athletes.
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