The Kalinga Stadium Swimming Centre in Bhubaneswar has come under scrutiny after students accused coaches of physical assault, misconduct, and neglect. Following these allegations, the Odisha government has ordered an inquiry and suspended head coach Sandeep Sejwal.
Students Speak Out Against Abuse
The issue surfaced when several young swimmers at the training center shared their experiences with OTV, revealing disturbing incidents of mistreatment. According to the students, coaches allegedly used abusive language, issued threats, and physically assaulted them without any valid reason.
One student stated,
“If someone performed exceptionally well, they would be separated from the group and later physically thrashed by the coaches. They used extremely foul language and tortured us mentally and physically.”
Another student alleged that well-performing swimmers were deliberately forced to sit out of training sessions. Coaches would then allegedly threaten them and withhold proper guidance and support.
Neglect and Harassment at the Sports Hostel
Students residing at the sports hostel have also raised concerns about neglect. They claim that the coaches ignored their training needs, making it difficult for them to maintain a proper regime. Some students reported being physically hit and mistreated without any justification.
Faced with continuous harassment, the students took the matter to the hostel authorities by writing a formal complaint letter. This action eventually led to the state government’s intervention and the suspension of the head coach.
Government Action and Ongoing Investigation
After the allegations surfaced, the Odisha government acted swiftly, ordering a detailed inquiry into the matter. The decision to suspend head coach Sandeep Sejwal is seen as a crucial step in ensuring the safety and well-being of the young athletes.
The investigation aims to uncover the extent of the misconduct and hold those responsible accountable. Authorities have assured that strict action will be taken if the allegations are proven true.
Final Thoughts
The revelations from Bhubaneswar’s Kalinga Stadium Swimming Centre have raised serious concerns about the treatment of young athletes in sports institutions. This case highlights the importance of a safe and supportive training environment for aspiring sportspeople. With the government stepping in, students and parents hope for justice and a much-needed reform in coaching ethics and conduct.