Hockey

Ex-India skipper claims HI secretary issued threats and intimidation over inquiries.

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Jul 9, 2026, 21:31 IST

The ex-captain of India claims that the secretary of HI threatened and intimidated him for raising inquiries.

Ex-India skipper claims HI secretary issued threats and intimidation over inquiries.

Asunta Lakra, a former captain of the Indian women's hockey team and an Asian Games medallist, has leveled serious allegations against Bholanath Singh, the secretary-general of Hockey India. Lakra claims that Singh has threatened and intimidated her in response to her efforts to expose misconduct within the sport, particularly in Jharkhand. Currently serving as a selector for Hockey India and holding positions on various internal committees, Lakra expressed her distress over the situation, stating that her attempts to advocate for young female athletes have been met with hostility rather than support.

In a heartfelt statement, Lakra recounted a troubling interaction with Singh, who also presides over Hockey Jharkhand. She revealed that after raising concerns about coach Sudhir Golla, who has been accused of sexually exploiting female players, she received a threatening phone call from Singh. “His exact words were ‘Apni aukat me raho, aukat me reh ke baat karo. Warna hame aata hai aukat batana’ (Know your limits, otherwise I can show them to you),” Lakra recalled, adding that the threats have left her feeling rattled and fearful, especially given her father's recent serious accident.

Allegations of Misconduct and Intimidation

Asunta Lakra's allegations extend beyond personal threats; she claims that Singh has asserted his untouchability within the organization, boasting that no one could challenge his position in Hockey Jharkhand, Hockey India, or even the International Hockey Federation (FIH). Despite the gravity of her claims, Singh has categorically denied any wrongdoing, stating, “Nothing of that sort has happened, I have no idea why she is saying all this.”

Moreover, Lakra highlighted the ongoing presence of coach Sudhir Golla at the Hockey Jharkhand office, despite his removal by the state sports department following complaints against him. She alleged that Golla has been attempting to undermine her credibility and has been seen warning others about his continued influence. In response to the situation, Lakra has filed complaints with both the state sports minister and the chief minister’s office, garnering support from over 30 national and international players, including notable names like Sumrai Tete and Sabitri Purty.

Calls for Investigation

Asima Ali, the vice-president of Hockey India, has voiced her support for Lakra, confirming that she confronted Singh about his alleged threats during a recent executive board meeting. Ali criticized Singh for failing to address multiple complaints and for forming an internal committee comprised of his supporters rather than qualified individuals. She has urged the government to investigate the matter, warning that if no action is taken, she may pursue legal avenues to address the escalating issues within the organization.

Latest News

End of Article