Who is the coach Ankush Bhardwaj, who has been charged with sexual harassment? An international medallist, a shooter involved in a doping scandal, and an academy entrepreneur

Veteran shooting coach Ankush Bhardwaj has been booked under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act following allegations of sexual misconduct made by a minor trainee, triggering his suspension and sending shockwaves through the Indian shooting fraternity.

According to the complaint, the alleged incident involved a 16-year-old shooter who was training under Bhardwaj. The FIR was registered in Faridabad after the minor accused the coach of inappropriate behaviour during a training-related trip in December, following a national competition held in Delhi. The complaint states that the incident took place at a hotel near the Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range, where the athlete alleged she was touched inappropriately against her will.

Police have booked Bhardwaj under provisions of the POCSO Act dealing with aggravated sexual assault, along with sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to criminal intimidation. Investigators have begun collecting statements and evidence as part of the ongoing probe. Officials familiar with the case said the matter is being treated with seriousness given the age of the complainant and the nature of the allegations.

In response to the FIR, the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) has suspended Bhardwaj from all coaching duties with immediate effect. The federation has also indicated that a show-cause notice will be issued, and he will remain barred from any official role until the investigation is completed. NRAI officials stressed that athlete safety is paramount and that strict action will be taken based on the findings of the inquiry.

Ankush Bhardwaj, a former international pistol shooter, had transitioned into coaching after his competitive career. He has trained several shooters and runs shooting academies in north India. His sporting career, however, has not been without controversy, having faced a doping ban earlier in his career before returning to the sport in a coaching capacity.

The case has reignited discussions around safeguarding young athletes and the need for stronger monitoring mechanisms within sports training environments. Sports administrators and former athletes have emphasised the importance of creating safe spaces for minors and ensuring that complaints are addressed swiftly and transparently.As the investigation continues, authorities have urged caution against speculation, noting that the legal process will determine the outcome.