Bhopal: Hockey India has removed support staff member Sudhir Golla from the ongoing under-18 national coaching camp following allegations of misconduct and negligence of duty. The action was taken after formal complaints were reportedly raised by trainees at the Centre of Excellence in Morabadi, Ranchi.
The development comes after concerns regarding Golla’s alleged conduct and performance during his tenure at the state-run training academy prompted authorities to initiate an inquiry.
Officials stated that action was taken after the complaints were reviewed and the matter came under examination by the concerned authorities.
Complaints trigger official inquiry
According to reports, several trainees at the Centre of Excellence in Morabadi submitted complaints to the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs in Jharkhand.
The complaints reportedly raised concerns regarding alleged inappropriate behaviour and negligence in duty during Golla’s period at the academy.
Following a preliminary assessment of the allegations, authorities initiated a formal process to examine the matter.
State officials subsequently intervened and relieved him of responsibilities at the Ranchi facility earlier this week.
Authorities also arranged for a replacement at the training centre.
Hockey India acts during national camp
Despite his removal from state responsibilities, questions emerged after Golla continued to remain part of the national under-18 set-up in Bhopal.
The under-18 men’s squad is currently preparing for an international bilateral series against Australia.
The continued presence of the staff member at the camp drew attention and led to scrutiny over the handling of the situation.
Hockey India later initiated action and removed him from the national camp.
Federation confirms removal
Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh confirmed that action had been taken and that Golla had been removed from the camp.
According to him, the decision was implemented immediately after developments at the state level came to the federation’s notice.
The governing body has not publicly released additional details regarding the ongoing inquiry or any further disciplinary measures.
Officials are expected to continue monitoring the situation as the matter progresses.
Development adds to challenges for federation
The incident comes during a period of increased attention on matters related to the functioning of the national hockey administration.
Recent discussions around coaching and administrative decisions have also generated public debate regarding management processes within the sport.
Observers have raised broader concerns regarding oversight mechanisms, safeguarding procedures and systems related to staffing and appointments.
Further developments are expected depending on the outcome of the inquiry and any subsequent decisions taken by the concerned authorities.