A 17-year-old boxer has accused her coach at the Lions Boxing Club in Bengaluru’s Kanteerava Stadium of sexually harassing her for nearly four years, triggering serious concern within the sporting community.
Police have registered a case against the coach under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act and relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.
Complaint filed through mother
According to reports, the teenager filed the complaint through her mother on May 22. The accused has been identified as 50-year-old coach Ramachandra, who had reportedly been training the girl for several years at the boxing club.
The athlete has allegedly been associated with the club for nearly a decade and claimed that the harassment began when she was still a minor.
Police begin investigation
Following the complaint, police initiated an investigation into the allegations. Officials said statements are being recorded and further legal action will depend on the findings of the inquiry.
The case has drawn attention due to the serious nature of the allegations and the trust placed in coaches who work closely with young athletes.
Concerns over safety in sports spaces
The incident has once again raised questions about the safety of minors in sports training environments and the need for stronger safeguards within institutions handling young athletes.
Child rights activists and members of the public have stressed the importance of creating secure reporting mechanisms and ensuring accountability in sports academies and coaching centres.
The matter is currently under investigation