‘Can I Crack Your Back?’: National Shooting Coach Accused of Assaulting Teen Athlete

‘Can I crack your back’: Teen narrates sexual assault by national shooting coach

It started with a seemingly harmless offer: “Can I crack your back?” For a young, exhausted athlete who had just competed in a high-pressure match, it might have sounded like a routine gesture of care from a trusted mentor. But for a 17-year-old national-level shooter from Faridabad, those words were the prelude to a terrifying ordeal of sexual assault at the hands of her own coach, Ankush Bharadwaj .

This shocking incident, now the subject of a formal police investigation under the stringent Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, has sent shockwaves through India’s sporting community. The alleged assault took place in the private confines of a five-star hotel room, a setting that underscores the profound breach of trust and the immense power imbalance that can exist between coaches and their young wards. The Ankush Bharadwaj sexual assault case is not just about one individual; it’s a stark reminder of the systemic vulnerabilities that young athletes face.

Table of Contents

The Allegations: A Teenager’s Harrowing Account

According to the police complaint filed by the victim’s family, the incident occurred shortly after a shooting competition. Bharadwaj, who held a position of significant authority as a national-level coach, allegedly called the minor to his hotel room for what he described as a “focused discussion” on her performance .

Once inside, the conversation took a predatory turn. The coach reportedly began massaging her back before forcibly assaulting her. The victim, traumatized and fearing for her career, initially remained silent. It was only after confiding in her parents that the family decided to take legal action, filing a detailed FIR with the local authorities in Faridabad.

Immediate Fallout: NRAI Suspends Coach, Files FIR

In a swift and decisive move, the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) has suspended Ankush Bharadwaj from all coaching duties pending the outcome of the investigation. The NRAI, the governing body for shooting sports in the country, stated that it has a “zero-tolerance policy towards any form of misconduct” and is fully cooperating with law enforcement .

This rapid response is a significant departure from past instances where sports federations were accused of sweeping such allegations under the rug to protect their image. The swift suspension sends a strong message that athlete welfare is now being prioritized over institutional reputation.

The POCSO Act: Why This Case Is So Serious

The fact that this case is being prosecuted under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, elevates its gravity immensely. The POCSO Act was specifically designed to provide a robust legal framework for the protection of children (anyone below 18 years) from sexual abuse. Its provisions are stringent, recognizing the severe trauma such crimes inflict on young victims.

Key aspects of the POCSO Act relevant here include:

  • Mandatory Reporting: Any person who knows of a child’s sexual abuse is legally bound to report it.
  • Special Courts: Cases are tried in designated POCSO courts to ensure a speedy and sensitive trial process.
  • Stringent Punishments: Convictions can lead to rigorous imprisonment for a minimum of 10 years, extendable to life.

For more information on legal protections for minors, the official portal of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) is a vital resource.

A Pattern of Abuse in Indian Sports?

Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident. Over the past decade, numerous cases of sexual harassment and abuse have surfaced across various Indian sports, from wrestling and boxing to athletics and hockey. These cases often share common threads: a powerful coach, a vulnerable young athlete, a closed ecosystem that discourages speaking out, and a fear of career repercussions.

The Ankush Bharadwaj sexual assault case highlights the critical need for independent oversight bodies within sports federations. Athletes need safe, confidential channels to report misconduct without fear of retaliation or being ostracized from their sport.

What Must Change to Protect Young Athletes

To prevent future tragedies, systemic reforms are essential:

  1. Mandatory Background Checks: All coaches and support staff must undergo thorough police verification and background checks.
  2. Regular Sensitization Workshops: Both athletes and staff should be educated on boundaries, consent, and reporting mechanisms.
  3. Independent Grievance Cells: Federations must establish external, impartial committees to handle complaints, removing the conflict of interest inherent in internal panels.
  4. Parental Involvement Protocols: Clear guidelines should govern coach-athlete interactions, especially during travel and accommodation.

Our guide on [INTERNAL_LINK:safeguarding-young-athletes-in-india] offers more practical steps for parents and institutions.

Conclusion: A Call for Zero Tolerance

The courage of this young shooter in coming forward has shone a necessary light on a deeply uncomfortable truth within Indian sports. The Ankush Bharadwaj sexual assault case must serve as a catalyst for lasting change. It’s not enough to suspend one coach; the entire culture that allows such abuses of power to flourish must be dismantled. Our young athletes dedicate their lives to bringing glory to the nation—they deserve to train and compete in an environment that is not just competitive, but also safe, respectful, and just.

Sources

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top