Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey has asked the Union Sports Ministry to constitute an independent inquiry committee to investigate former India captain Asunta Lakra’s allegations of sexual harassment, arguing that an internal probe by the federation could raise questions over its impartiality.
The request comes after the Sports Ministry directed Hockey India to facilitate an inquiry through its Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) into Lakra’s allegations of harassment and intimidation.
In an email to the ministry on Wednesday, Tirkey said Hockey India viewed the allegations with “the utmost seriousness” and remained committed to ensuring the safety, dignity and protection of athletes. However, he noted that since the allegations involve Hockey India office-bearers, an inquiry by the federation’s ICC could give rise to concerns over fairness.
“To ensure a fair, transparent and independent inquiry, Hockey India requests the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs to consider constituting an independent inquiry committee comprising persons not connected with Hockey India to examine the allegations,” Tirkey wrote, while assuring the ministry of the federation’s full cooperation.
Lakra had earlier sought the ministry’s intervention, alleging that Hockey India was shielding those accused of sexual misconduct, mistreatment and intimidation of women players. She also accused Hockey India secretary general Bholanath Singh of intimidating her.
Tirkey separately informed Hockey India’s Executive Board of his decision, stressing that both the complainant and the respondent are members of the board, making it inappropriate for the federation’s own ICC to handle the matter. He urged board members to maintain strict confidentiality and avoid any action or communication that could influence the inquiry.
Published on Jul 16, 2026
