SAI Athletes File Sexual Harassment Complaint Against Assam's Swimming Coach

According to a statement from the SAI, a complaint was filed at the Paltan Bazar Police Station due to the severity of the issue, with the majority of the athletes being minor girls.

The Paltan Bazar police have registered the FIR. (File Photo)

As wrestlers continue to protest over accusations of sexual harassment made against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the athletes of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) Training Centre in Solalgaon have pressed charges against the in-charge and swimming coach Mrinal Basumatary, alleging him of committing sexual harassment.

According to a statement from the Sports Authority of India, a complaint was filed at the Paltan Bazar Police Station due to the severity of the issue, with the majority of the athletes being minor girls.

“As SAI adopts zero tolerance policy towards sexual harassment cases, the same will be followed up so as to ensure that justice is delivered to our athletes," reads the press statement. 

As per the press release, the matter was first reported by some athletes of SAI Training Centre, Solal Gaon, and their coach, during a selection trial at the SAI, Regional Centre New Field Sports Complex in Guwahati.

The issue was brought to the attention of the regional centre's internal committee of the sports governing organization, and an investigation is currently underway.

Though the Paltan Bazar police have registered the FIR, they are yet to take action against the accused.

Earlier today, the wrestlers who were protesting issued a caution that on Sunday there may be a significant choice made that could be detrimental to the nation's welfare. 

The deadline of May 21 has been set by the wrestlers for the khap mahapanchayat to determine if they will take the protest forward.

Since April 23rd, Jantar Mantar has been the location of protests staged by wrestlers who seek the apprehension of Brij Bhushan due to sexual harassment allegations made against him by seven female wrestlers, one of which was a minor.