The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has concluded its investigation into the alleged physical assault of two women players by its suspended executive committee member, Deepak Sharma. The AIFF’s Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) stated that it couldn’t proceed further as the victims opted not to pursue the matter any longer. This decision comes swiftly after the AIFF suspended Sharma pending further notice, reflecting the organization’s commitment to addressing allegations of misconduct promptly.
Despite the seriousness of the allegations, the investigation hit a roadblock as both the alleged victims and the accused party declined to provide any additional information or cooperate with the ICC. Consequently, the AIFF deemed it necessary to close the investigation, citing the lack of further leads or cooperation from the concerned individuals. This development underscores the complexities and challenges faced in resolving cases of harassment within sports organizations, highlighting the need for transparent and thorough investigative processes.
While the closure of the investigation may leave unanswered questions, the AIFF’s commitment to maintaining a safe and inclusive environment for all players remains unwavering. Moving forward, the organization will continue to prioritize the welfare and protection of its athletes, ensuring that appropriate measures are in place to address any instances of misconduct or harassment within the football community.
