The Sports Authority of India (SAI) has taken disciplinary action against PT Paulose, an Asian Games bronze medallist and India's first Olympic rower, by suspending him from his position as High Performance Director at the National Centre of Excellence in Alappuzha. He has been transferred to the SAI Imphal centre following allegations of sexual harassment made by a female assistant rowing coach.
Complaint and Inquiry
According to a SAI source, the complaint was filed in January this year. “Paulose, 49, has been suspended after a female assistant rowing coach filed a complaint in Jan this year,” the source stated. Upon receiving the complaint, SAI initiated a departmental inquiry, which is currently ongoing. “He was transferred to SAI’s Imphal centre earlier this month to ensure he cannot intimidate the victim or influence the probe in any manner,” the source added, emphasizing that appropriate action will be taken based on the inquiry's findings.
The specifics of the allegations have not been disclosed. Attempts by the Times of India to contact Paulose for comment were unsuccessful.
Broader Concerns at SAI Centres
This incident has reignited concerns about athlete welfare across SAI centres. It recalls a 2015 episode at the same Alappuzha centre where four female rowers attempted suicide by consuming a toxic fruit called Othalanga (cerbera odollam) after alleged physical and mental harassment by senior athletes. In that case, a 15-year-old died, while the others survived. Reports indicated that the athletes were forced to perform chores for their seniors, with harassment escalating each time they resisted.
In a separate incident in January, two female students, aged 18 and 15, were found dead by hanging inside a SAI hostel in Kollam. Police suspect suicide, and notes seeking forgiveness from their parents were recovered, though further details remain undisclosed.
Statistical Overview
Based on information presented in Parliament, SAI has recorded 33 sexual harassment complaints over the last decade. Of these, 25 were lodged against coaches and 8 against administrative staff.
Key Kerala Cases
- 2015 (Alappuzha): Four female rowers consumed toxic fruit after alleged abuse by seniors; a 15-year-old died, others survived amid reports of forced chores and harassment.
- January 2026 (Kollam): Two hostel students, aged 18 and 15, found dead in suspected suicide; notes to parents recovered, investigation ongoing.
