Haryana: Winning medals, fighting stigma

“Haryana society is still biased when it comes to dealing with cases of sexual abuse. It is not the accused, but the victim who faces stigma and is looked down upon if she dares to raise her voice. As a result, even families prefer to keep the matter under wraps.” These words of former player Usha Rani reflect a harsh reality behind the growing success of women athletes in Haryana.The state is known for its strong performance in sports. From wrestling and boxing to hockey, football and shooting, Haryana’s daughters have brought medals at national and international levels. They have helped the state stay at the top of India’s sports rankings. Their achievements are often celebrated as proof of social progress. But behind the medals lies a troubling contradiction.Incidents of sexual harassment involving women athletes continue to surface. Some cases have come from wrestling academies, others from shooting and different sports. A few brave athletes have spoken up and filed complaints. However, many cases are believed to go unreported because of fear, social pressure and stigma.Usha Rani says for many girls, ensuring safety from sexual harassment is harder than winning competitions. Families often worry more about “log kya kahenge” (what will people say) than about seeking justice. Victims are labelled and judged, while the accused often escape social shame. This fear discourages many families from approaching the police or going to court.Several high-profile cases in recent years have kept the issue in the spotlight. Allegations of sexual harassment against former Haryana Sports Minister Sandeep Singh are still being heard in court. Similarly, complaints by women wrestlers against former Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh are also sub judice. In another shocking case, a 17-year-old national-level shooter from Faridabad allegedly faced sexual assault by her coach at a hotel.Data presented in the Haryana Assembly in 2023 showed that 24 cases of sexual harassment were reported in the state between January 2019 and December 2023. Activists believe the real number could be higher.There are also concerns about weak institutional mechanisms. The Haryana Olympic Association (HOA) is yet to fully implement the mandatory Internal Committee under the POSH Act, 2013, meant to address workplace sexual harassment complaints. HOA general secretary Ravinder Singh Pannu, however, said the draft is ready and will soon be enforced across sports associations. They also claim that no formal complaint has been received so far.Community groups like the Sangwan Khap have expressed support for victims and demanded strict action against culprits. However, they admit that fighting a legal battle is not easy for young athletes in a society where gender bias still exists.As the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign completes 10 years, the debate over women’s safety in Haryana continues. Activist Jagmati Sangwan says girls have proved themselves in every field despite social and financial challenges. What they now need is a strong institutional system and social support that makes them feel safe.

Haryana: Winning medals, fighting stigma

Despite global sporting success, women athletes in Haryana continue to face stigma and social pressure in cases of sexual harassment

Deepender Deswal

Tribune News Service

Haryana: Winning medals, fighting stigma

Despite global sporting success, women athletes in Haryana continue to face stigma and social pressure in cases of sexual harassment

Deepender Deswal

Tribune News Service

Unlock Premium Insights in This Article