Another controversy has arisen in Hockey India as a member of the coaching staff for the Indian men’s sub-junior team was removed from the ongoing national camp in Bhopal due to allegations of sexual misconduct. The incident coincided with India’s U-18 team playing Australia at home in Bhopal. Support staff member Sudhir Golla was asked to leave following complaints from the Eklavya Boys and Girls Hockey Training Centre in Morabadi, Ranchi.
A complaint was lodged with the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, Jharkhand, accusing Golla of neglect of duty and sexual misconduct during his tenure at the Centre of Excellence. An official order dated May 11, obtained by The Tribune, confirmed Golla’s removal from his position in Ranchi, with a woman coach taking over his responsibilities at the center. This marks the fourth significant safeguarding concern in Indian hockey in just over six months.
In the past months, Indian hockey has faced multiple safeguarding issues. In November 2025, a junior women’s hockey coach had his contract not renewed due to sexual misconduct allegations just before the FIH Hockey Junior World Cup 2025 in Santiago, Chile. Subsequently, senior women’s team coach Harendra Singh resigned after allegations of misconduct and coaching skill doubts by national team members. In April 2026, another Hockey India staff member was accused of sexually harassing women officials and coaches.
Hockey India, while confirming Golla’s removal, stressed its commitment to athlete safety. The federation stated that player safeguarding is a top priority, ensuring a safe environment for all athletes. However, concerns are rising within the organization regarding the management of safeguarding issues. A source within Hockey India admitted that the federation’s reputation has been tarnished due to ongoing controversies and alleged deficiencies in conducting thorough investigations.
