Indian swimmer expelled from Para Asian Games over alleged molestation of hotel employee

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Indian para swimmer Mohammad Shams Alam Sheikh, who was part of the country’s contingent at the Para Asian Games in Japan has been accused of allegedly molesting a female hotel employee. Following the allegations, his name was removed from the competition and he was sent back to India. Shams was scheduled to compete in the 100-metre breaststroke event on Wednesday but could not participate. According to media reports, he declined to comment on the matter when approached.

According to reports, the alleged incident took place on Monday at the Sheraton Hotel in Nagoya, where the Indian contingent was staying. Shams allegedly called a female hotel employee to his room on the pretext of requesting a towel and behaved inappropriately with her. The employee reportedly informed hotel management, which then contacted the police. Japanese police subsequently began investigating the matter and questioned Shams at the stadium in the presence of Indian team officials. Reports also claim that he initially denied the allegations before later admitting to the incident, although an official police statement has not yet been released.

The organisers reportedly removed Shams from the list of participating swimmers, while the Paralympic Committee of India sent him back to the country on Tuesday night. Rahul Swami, the Indian contingent’s Chef de Mission confirmed his return and said disciplinary action could be considered after his arrival. Possible action may include a ban from para swimming competitions but no final decision has been announced.