LSN News › India

Sport · India Bureau

Indian Hockey Official Removed From Asian Games Over Harassment Allegations

Hockey umpire and technical official Gurinder Singh Sangha has been sent back from the Asian Games in Japan following multiple complaints of alleged sexual harassment, marking a significant embarrassment for the Indian contingent.

LSN India · 2 October 2026

The decision to repatriate Sangha came after organizers received complaints regarding his conduct during the Games. The exact nature and number of complaints have not been fully disclosed, but sources indicate they relate to allegations of inappropriate behavior toward individuals associated with the Games.

Sangha's removal represents a serious setback for Indian hockey and raises questions about the screening and oversight mechanisms for officials representing the country at major international sporting events. The Asian Games, held annually in various host nations across the continent, maintain strict codes of conduct for all participants and support staff.

The incident has drawn attention to broader issues of workplace conduct and safeguarding protocols within Indian sports administration. Officials have indicated that an investigation into the matter will proceed, though further details remain limited at this stage.

India's hockey contingent includes both men's and women's teams competing across multiple events at the Games. The repatriation of Sangha follows the Games' zero-tolerance approach to allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct among accredited personnel.