PANAJI
Mapusa police arrested All India Football Federation executive committee member Deepak Sharma on charges of assaulting and misbehaving with players of Khad Football Club, which is participating in the Indian Women League, during their stay in Goa.
Two female players, aged 19 and 21, of Himachal Pradesh-based Khad FC, taking part in the League (second division) here lodged a complaint at the Mapusa police station on Saturday alleging that Sharma, the owner of the club, had barged into their room and physically assaulted them on the night of March 28.
Acting on the complaint, Mapusa police registered a case under Sections 323, 341 and 354A of the IPC.
Deputy Superintendent of Police Sandesh Chodankar said, “Sharma was called for questioning during the day after a formal complaint was received. He was arrested by Mapusa police under various sections, including causing hurt, using force against women, among others”.
North Goa SP Akshat Kaushal said further police investigation is in progress.
The incident allegedly occurred in a hotel room on Thursday, with the players officially filing a complaint with the AIFF on Friday.
According to the footballers, Sharma became upset when he found them preparing food in the hotel room and proceeded to physically assault them. They further alleged that Sharma was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident and had been drinking in their presence during their journey from Himachal Pradesh to Goa.
One of the footballers recounted the incident, stating that Sharma verbally abused them for cooking eggs in their room and then physically assaulted her when she tried to explain the situation. The players also claimed that Sharma's wife, who manages the club, pressured them to retract their complaint.
In response to the allegations, the AIFF President, Kalyan Chaubey convened an emergency meeting with senior members of the AIFF to address the situation. Following discussions, a three-member committee was formed, including Pinky Bompal Magar, Rita Jairath, and Vijay Bali, to investigate the matter and submit a report within seven days.
As part of the investigation, Deepak Sharma has been instructed to refrain from participating in all football-related activities until the committee concludes its process.
The Ministry of Sports has taken cognizance of the alleged assault, directing the AIFF to take prompt action and ensure the safety and security of the footballers.
Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur emphasised that the well-being of players is a top priority and urged AIFF to take strong legal measures while informing the ministry about the same.
The Minister tweeted that “the ministry of Sports has taken a serious note of an alleged physical assault on women footballers by an official during the ongoing Indian Women's League in Goa. All India Football Federation (AIFF) has been directed to take quick action and ensure the safety and security of our footballers. The ministry has further directed AIFF to take strong legal action and inform the ministry about actions taken. The safety and security of players are our utmost priority”.
