Faridabad, Jan 08, 2026 – Haryana Police have registered a case against a national-level shooting coach for allegedly sexually assaulting an 18-year-old athlete at a hotel in Faridabad last month. The incident, according to the complaint, occurred on December 16, a day after the athlete had participated in a national shooting competition at the Dr Karni Singh Shooting Academy in New Delhi.

The accused coach is one of the 13 national pistol coaches appointed by the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI). Police confirmed that the athlete was a minor at the time of the alleged assault, and the case has been registered under Section 6 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and Section 351(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

‘Called to discuss performance’

According to the FIR, the athlete was asked to meet the coach in the lobby of a hotel in Surajkund, Faridabad, ostensibly to analyse her performance and discuss shooting techniques in detail. The coach allegedly persuaded the athlete to move to his hotel room, claiming the discussion would be more focused there.

Once inside, the FIR alleges, the coach sexually assaulted the athlete despite her attempts to resist. The complaint further states that the coach threatened to ruin her career and harm her family if she reported the incident. The athlete left the hotel in shock and later informed her family, prompting the registration of a formal complaint.

Investigation underway

Faridabad police said they have requested all CCTV footage from the hotel to verify the athlete’s account. Witness statements are being recorded, and authorities are probing the matter thoroughly. As of now, the accused has neither been detained nor issued a notice, and the concerned sports federation has not yet been formally informed.

Police have stressed the seriousness of the case given that it involves a minor and a person in a position of trust and authority. Investigators are moving forward under the provisions of POCSO, which allows for stringent legal measures to protect minors and ensure speedy prosecution.

Yashpal Yadav, Public Relations Officer of Faridabad Police, said, “Considering the sensitivity of the case, we are following all leads carefully and taking immediate steps to corroborate the allegations through CCTV footage and witness statements.”

The case has sparked concern about the safety of athletes under the supervision of national coaches, particularly minors, and has prompted calls for stricter monitoring and accountability mechanisms within sports federations.