Shaikh previously held the world No. 1 ranking in two para-swimming events and won two gold medals at the 2018 Asian Para Games.
Indian para swimmer Mohammad Shams Aalam Shaikh has been sent back to India after Japanese police detained him for questioning over allegations of sexual harassment and molestation involving a female hotel employee during the Asian Para Games in Nagoya.
The alleged incident took place on Monday at the hotel where the Indian para-swimming team was staying. According to reports, the employee was carrying out housekeeping duties in Shaikh’s room when the alleged misconduct occurred.
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The complaint was brought to the attention of the local organising committee and officials of the Indian delegation, following which Japanese police detained the 40-year-old swimmer for questioning. Shaikh returned to India on Tuesday, a day after the alleged incident.
Shaikh was scheduled to compete at the Games but returned without participating in his events.
The Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) is reportedly considering disciplinary action against the swimmer, including a possible lifetime ban. However, no final decision has been confirmed, and the allegations have not been adjudicated.
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Who Is Mohammad Shams Aalam Shaikh?
Shaikh, a para swimmer from Bihar, has represented India at several international competitions. According to World Para Swimming records, he previously held the world No. 1 ranking in the men’s 100m butterfly S5 and 50m breaststroke SB4 categories.
He won gold medals in the 200m and 50m breaststroke events at the 2018 Asian Para Games in Jakarta. In 2025, he also won gold in the 200m breaststroke at the Reykjavik International Games, setting Indian and Asian records, according to reports.
The Nagoya edition was set to be his third consecutive appearance at the Asian Para Games. His participation was cut short following the allegations and his return to India.
Further disciplinary action will depend on the decisions of the relevant authorities.
Published: 22 Oct 2026, 10:52 am IST
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