Uttarakhand Court Grants Bail to Hockey Coach Accused of Raping Minor Player

The Uttarakhand High Court has granted bail to a National Hockey Coach accused under the POCSO Act for allegedly raping a minor player during a hockey camp for National Games selection in 2025. Justice Alok Mahra presided over the bail application involving charges under Sections 64(2)(f) (rape) and 127(2) (wrongful confinement) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and Sections 5(N) and 6 of the POCSO Act. The victim's father filed the complaint after receiving a call from an Assistant Hockey Coach about the alleged assault. The FIR noted severe bleeding from the victim’s private parts at the scene.

The defense argued that the medical report indicated the victim was menstruating, with no injuries, no live spermatozoa, and no signs of sexual intercourse found. The applicant claimed he was falsely implicated after refusing to include the victim in the team despite her pressure. He emphasized his four-year tenure as a recognized coach with no prior criminal record. Additionally, the defense highlighted that CCTV footage was unavailable due to full DVR memory, and pointed out contradictions in the complainant’s and victim’s statements, including the complainant denying he filed the FIR. They argued the alleged 15-minute incident was improbable.

The State opposed the bail. However, the court considered the applicant’s judicial custody since January 6, 2026, and the completion of examinations of the complainant and victim, reducing risks of evidence tampering or witness influence. The court deemed it a fit case for bail. The bail application was allowed, directing the applicant’s release upon furnishing personal bond and sureties. Case No: BA1 No. 1159 of 2025.