Bengaluru, July 24: The sexual harassment case against former chief coach of the Indian women’s hockey team took a curious turn on Saturday, but the players were a relieved lot.
With the matter being referred to the Delhi Police, the players termed the turn of events as a moral victory.
The player in question, Ranjita refused to talk to the media, with Hockey India issuing a gag order, but people close to her said she was very relieved. “Ranjita has been asked not to interact with the media till a final verdict is out. When we informed her about the Hockey India decision to refer the matter to the police she was very relieved,” said a source close to Ranjita who is currently in Mumbai.
The players, on the other hand, thought Saturday’s ruling was a moral victory for the cause of women’s hockey. “It required a lot of guts from us to come forward and complain. We faced a big backlash because of it. Now we feel all our efforts has paid off. This is a moral victory and our faith in the system has paid off.
“This will not undo the suffering and mental agony that Ranjita has gone through but it will surely go a long way in boosting the morale of many more Indian women sports persons who are silent sufferers,” said a senior player.
“Amidst all the hype surrounding Kaushik sir we thought he would escape, but we are glad he too will be investigated,” said another senior player.With Hockey India referring the matter to Delhi Police, it is learnt Ranjita is willing to talk to them if the need arises and will co-operate with them.
Timeline
July 16: Hockey India receives anonymous mail alleging Kaushik of misconduct
July 19: Ranjita Devi files a written complaint, signed by 31 members of the women’s team
July 21: Two more anonymous mails reach HI office
July 21: Manipur Hockey asks for inspection in Ranjita issue
July 21: Kaushik tenders resignation, HI sets up enquiry committee
July 22: Railways, employers of Ranjita, write to HI
July 23: Probe committee presents factual report, refers matter to ministry, SAI
July 24: HI calls for police probe