BENGALURU — A boxing coach in the Karnataka capital is facing serious allegations of sexual harassment after a minor student filed a complaint detailing sustained abuse spanning four years. The case has once again brought attention to the safety of young athletes in sports training facilities across the country.
According to reports, the complaint describes disturbing incidents in which the accused coach would allegedly summon the underage girl to a private room where he would engage in inappropriate conduct. The allegations include unwanted physical contact with sensitive body parts, forced kissing, and other forms of improper behaviour during what should have been a professional training relationship.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about the vulnerability of minors in sporting environments where power dynamics between coaches and students can enable predatory behaviour. India has witnessed several high-profile cases in recent years involving coaches and sports administrators accused of exploiting young athletes, prompting calls for stricter background checks, mandatory safeguarding protocols, and better oversight mechanisms in sports academies.
Authorities are expected to investigate the matter thoroughly under relevant provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, which provides stringent punishment for sexual crimes against minors. The identity of the complainant has been withheld in accordance with legal protections for minor victims of sexual offences.