Inquiry panel submits report to HI; no word on Kaushik

The four-member inquiry panel set up to look into the allegations of sexual harassment against MK Kaushik, former coach of the national women’s hockey team, submitted its findings to Hockey India on Friday. HT Correspondent reports.

The four-member inquiry panel set up to look into the allegations of sexual harassment against MK Kaushik, former coach of the national women’s hockey team, submitted its findings to Hockey India on Friday.

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The panel, headed by Rajiv Mehta, deliberated for close to three hours on the reports, which were submitted by Kaushik and Th Ranjita (the complainant) on Thursday. “We have examined the testimonials from both parties. Some players and the team manager (Madhu Yadav) have also given their accounts. We decided to give our reports since we did not feel the need to consult anyone anymore on the issue,” said Mehta.

According to sources, the 30-page report has a detailed account of the matter but has stopped short of giving a final verdict on the allegations. HI secretary-general, Narinder Batra, confirmed having received the report but refused to disclose its contents. “We will examine the report minutely after which it will be passed on to the Sports Authority of India with our recommendations,” he said.

Kaushik resigned from his post on Wednesday but had expressed confidence that he would come out clean.

However, a letter in support of Ranjita, signed by 31 players, submitted to the probe panel may result in the charges holding weight.