AIFF Executive Committee Member Arrested for Alleged Assault on Women Football Players.
Goa, March 30, 2024: Deepak Sharma, a member of the All-India Football Federation (AIFF) executive committee, found himself in legal trouble as he was arrested by Goa police on Saturday for allegedly assaulting two female football players. The incident occurred at a local hotel where the players were staying while participating in the Indian Women’s League.
According to reports, Deepak Sharma, who also owns Khad FC, the team the players represent, is accused of forcefully entering their room and physically assaulting them on March 28. The victims, belonging to Khad FC, lodged a formal complaint against Sharma, prompting the police action.
Sandesh Chodankar, the deputy superintendent of police, verified the arrest and said that Deepak Sharma was detained following interrogation by the Mapusa police. “He was arrested under various sections including causing hurt and using force against women,” stated Chodankar.
After being arrested for the entire night, the secretary-general of the Himachal Pradesh Football Association and a member of the AIFF executive committee are scheduled to appear in court on Sunday, March 31.
Caetano Fernandes, the president of the Goa Football Association (GFA), supported the victims and assisted in submitting the case to the Mapusa police station.
The event has shocked the Indian football community and sparked worries about the health and safety of players—especially women—in the game. It emphasises how urgently strict regulations are needed to protect athletes and bring those who breach their rights accountable.