A serious controversy has shaken India’s shooting fraternity after Haryana Police registered a criminal case against national shooting coach Ankush Bharadwaj over allegations of sexual harassment made by a 17-year-old national-level athlete.
The FIR was filed at the Women Police Station in NIT Faridabad following a complaint by the minor’s mother. 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, reflecting the gravity of the charges.
Incident Allegedly Took Place After National Shooting Competition
According to police records, the incident is said to have occurred on December 16, 2025, shortly after the athlete competed at a national shooting event held at the Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range in South Delhi.
The FIR states that Bharadwaj asked the teenager to meet him at a hotel in Surajkund, Faridabad, claiming he wanted to review her performance. Initially, the meeting was proposed in the hotel lobby, but the coach later convinced her to come to his room, saying a private and focused discussion was needed.
It was inside the hotel room, the survivor alleges, that the assault occurred.
Alleged Threats to Career and Family
The young shooter told police that after the incident, the coach warned her not to reveal what had happened. He allegedly threatened to ruin her sporting career and harm her family if she spoke out.
The victim later shared the ordeal with her family, following which her mother approached the police, leading to the registration of the case.
Police Collecting Evidence and Witness Statements
Faridabad Police Public Relations Officer Yashpal Yadav confirmed that the hotel management has been instructed to immediately provide CCTV footage from the premises.
Multiple police teams have been deployed to gather forensic and electronic evidence. Investigators are also recording statements from hotel staff and possible witnesses who were present at the time. Officials said efforts are being made to preserve all relevant material before questioning the accused.
National Rifle Association Suspends Coach
The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) has also taken action following the emergence of the allegations.
NRAI Secretary General Pawan Kumar Singh said the federation learned about the matter through media reports and has suspended Ankush Bharadwaj from all responsibilities until the investigation is completed. The sports body said it will fully cooperate with law enforcement authorities.
A Test of Justice and Athlete Safety
The case has sparked renewed concern over athlete safety and abuse of authority in Indian sports. With a minor involved and a coach accused of exploiting his position, the incident has drawn widespread attention and calls for strict action.
As the investigation continues, many within the sporting community hope that justice will be delivered swiftly and that strong safeguards will be put in place to protect young athletes from exploitation.