Desk Correspondent , Delhi - The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) has suspended a national-level shooting coach following serious allegations of sexual assault against a 17-year-old athlete. The suspension, announced late Wednesday, comes after the Haryana Police registered a First Information Report (FIR) based on a complaint filed by the minor's family. NRAI Secretary General Pawan Kumar Singh confirmed that the coach has been relieved of all duties and will not be given any new assignments until an internal inquiry into the matter is completed.

The alleged incident took place on December 16, following a national-level competition at the Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Academy in New Delhi. According to the FIR, the coach asked the young shooter to meet him in his hotel room in Surajkund, Faridabad, under the pretext of analyzing her performance. Once inside, the coach reportedly sexually assaulted the minor despite her resistance. The complaint further alleges that the coach threatened to ruin the athlete's professional career and harm her family if she disclosed the incident to anyone.

The case has been registered under Section 6 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The athlete reportedly remained in a state of shock before informing her family, who then approached the authorities. This development has sent shockwaves through the sporting community, with many calling for a swift and transparent investigation. The NRAI has pledged full cooperation with the police as they investigate the gravity of the charges against the veteran coach.