Pargat blames Hockey India for harassment case

New Delhi :

Former captain Pargat Singh reckons that the sex scandal that rocked Indian women's hockey, involving coach MK Kaushik, could have been avoided if a strong administrative set up had been in place.

Pargat was of the view that the scandal occurred only because of administrative lapses and the problem further compounded because of Hockey India's unprofessional handling of the matter.

"Everything happened because of loose administration and later Hockey India handled the matter in a childish manner. They were not at all professional in their approach," said the former India full-back, who is contesting for the president's post against Vidya Stokes in Wednesday's HI election.

"I feel the Indian Olympic Association should have taken up the matter instead of Hockey India. A redressal cell, comprising an independent person with a legal mind should have been set up to take note of the players' complaints," he said.

Indian hockey plunged into a crisis last week when a fringe player Ranjitha Devi sent a written complaint to Hockey India, alleging sexual harassment against coach Kaushik. In her complaint, Ranjita alleged that Kaushik had asked for sexual favours and used vulgar language during a recent Canada and China tour.

Even though he resigned from the job, Kaushik maintained that he was innocent and was a victim of conspiracy.

HI also sacked videographer Basavraj whose photographs with prostitutes during the recent Canada and China tour were also sent to the national body through an anonymous e-mail.