In a shocking turn of events, former world champion boxer and Arjuna awardee Saweety Boora has filed an FIR against her husband, Deepak Hooda, accusing him and his family of subjecting her to dowry harassment and physical assault. Hooda, also an Arjuna awardee and a former Asiad bronze-winning kabaddi player, has denied the allegations, citing health concerns as a reason for his inability to respond immediately.
Legal Action Initiated Against Hooda
The FIR, registered on February 25 in Haryana’s Hisar district, follows serious allegations from Boora. Seema, the Station House Officer (SHO) of the women police station in Hisar, confirmed that the complaint has been officially recorded and that multiple notices were issued to Hooda, but he has yet to respond.
“We have given him notices 2-3 times, but he has not turned up,” the SHO said.
Hooda, when contacted, defended his non-appearance, stating, “My health has taken a beating due to the trauma. I have submitted a medical certificate and requested a later date. I will certainly go there (to the police station), but I won’t make a negative comment against my wife. I have not been allowed to meet her.”
Meanwhile, Boora has refrained from making any public statements on the matter.
Allegations of Dowry Harassment and Physical Assault
According to the complaint, Boora has accused Hooda and his family of subjecting her to domestic violence over demands for dowry. The SHO elaborated on the charges, stating that Boora had met their initial demand for a luxury car, yet the harassment continued.
“A demand for a luxury car was made and met, but her husband beats her and also raises further monetary demands,” the SHO said, referring to the specifics of Boora’s complaint.
The case has been registered under Section 85 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which pertains to the cruelty inflicted on a woman by her husband or his relatives. The legal provision includes punishment for acts of harassment, coercion, and physical abuse for dowry.
Hooda’s Political and Athletic Background
Apart from his sporting achievements, Deepak Hooda has been an active figure in Haryana politics. He contested the 2024 Haryana Assembly elections as a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate from the Meham constituency in Rohtak district but was unsuccessful in his bid.
Hooda’s kabaddi career includes winning a gold medal with the Indian team at the 2016 South Asian Games and a bronze at the 2014 Asian Games. He has also been a prominent competitor in the Pro Kabaddi League, contributing significantly to the sport’s popularity in India.
Public Reactions and Social Implications
The allegations have sparked widespread discussions about the issue of domestic violence and dowry harassment, even among prominent public figures. Many in the sports community have expressed shock over the situation, with some advocating for a thorough and fair investigation into the matter. The case has once again highlighted the challenges faced by women, even those with significant professional achievements, in their personal lives.
Women’s rights activists and legal experts have emphasized the importance of a fair legal process, with calls for both parties to present their sides in court. The Haryana police are expected to take further action as Hooda responds to the notices served against him.
What Lies Ahead?
As the case unfolds, Hooda will be required to cooperate with the police investigation and present his defense. If found guilty under Section 85 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, he could face legal penalties, including imprisonment.
For Boora, the case represents a significant legal battle as she seeks justice against the alleged abuse. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the course of legal proceedings and whether reconciliation or court intervention will dictate the outcome of the case.
Given the prominence of both individuals in Indian sports, this legal battle is expected to remain in the public eye, raising further debates on domestic abuse, gender justice, and the accountability of influential figures in society.
