BTC steward accused of assaulting jockey after horse comes 7th place in race

BENGALURU: A jockey, identified as Rushal, was allegedly assaulted by Steward Ravi Shankar after the latter’s horse came 7th place in a race at Bangalore Turf Club. Rushal was verbally abused and physically attacked by the steward.

Ravishankar called Rushal into his meeting chamber for an inquiry and allegedly struck the jockey on the head. The incident occurred on November 1 during the day’s final race, when the horse named Jolly Star was participating in the race.

The rider of Jolly Star, Rushal, was an apprentice jockey who had obtained his licence only a month ago and did not have enough experience. Jockey Rushal and Jolly Star finished in 7th place in the race.

Steward Ravi Shankar summoned Rushal to his chamber and allegedly assaulted him in the presence of another senior steward, Urs. Rushal was shocked and reportedly, even contemplated suicide because of depression. Eventually, through his friends, Rushal filed a complaint with the Jockey Association. The Bombay Jockey Association also condemned the assault.