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Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aditya Thackeray targeted Madhya Pradesh Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya’s remarks on the alleged molestation of two Australian women cricketers in Indore.
Thackeray called it a reflection of the “pathetic mentality of the government”. “As shameful as the @AusWomenCricket members incident is, the Madhya Pradesh minister calling them out and saying it’s a lesson to be “more careful” makes it even worse,” she said.
“What a shame! Obviously the government will not take action on them, but at a time when we bid for Olympics, Commonwealth Games and also invite investors to India, it is shameful to have such a pathetic mentality in the government,” Thackeray posted on Twitter.
Thackeray also questioned the minister’s remarks on women’s safety. He asked, “Is it a crime for a woman, whether from the cricket team or not, to walk on the streets of our cities?”
Aditya Thackeray said, “Instead of taking strong action on the many such incidents that happen to women on a daily basis, it is insulting for the minister to say such nonsense.”
What’s the matter?
Two Australian women cricketers participating in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup were allegedly followed and one of them molested by a man riding a motorcycle in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, police said on Saturday.
Both of them had left their team hotel in Indore and gone to a nearby cafe before the match against South Africa. News agency ANI reported that both players were allegedly “touched inappropriately” during the outing.
The Australian team management security complained about “inappropriate behaviour” by both players and an FIR was subsequently filed.
Sub-inspector Nidhi Raghuvanshi said the two cricketers had come out of their hotel and were heading towards a cafe when a man on a motorcycle started following them. “He allegedly touched one of them inappropriately and left,” he said.
What did Kailash Vijayvargiya say?
Madhya Pradesh Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya, commenting on the incident, said that the Australian women cricketers suddenly leaving their hotel without informing the authorities was “a mistake on their part as well.”
Vijayvargiya was quoted as saying, “Look, there has been a mistake. But the players suddenly left without telling anyone – they didn’t even tell their coach – that’s a mistake on their part too.”
The minister said, “Because there was private security there and also police security, but without anyone knowing they left and this incident happened.”
In the video, Vijayvargiya can be heard saying, “This incident is a lesson for everyone.”
What action did the police take?
Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime Branch) Rajesh Dandotia said on Sunday that the suspect in the case, Akil Shaikh, has a criminal background.
“The Australian team management security in-charge reported an incident where an FIR has been lodged under section BNS 74 for inappropriate behavior and BNS 78 for stalking,” Dandotia said.
He said, “With a six-hour intensive strategic operation, we arrested the accused named Akil Shaikh, who has a criminal background…”
“He appeared in the court yesterday and we are interrogating him. After today’s police remand is completed, we will produce him in the court and we are trying to send him on judicial remand,” Dandotiya said.
Earlier, Assistant Police Commissioner Himani Mishra had met both the players, recorded their statements and filed a First Information Report under sections 74 (use of criminal force to outrage the modesty of a woman) and section 78 (stalking) of the Indian Code of Justice (BNS) at the MIG police station.
Security increased in Navi Mumbai
Security has reportedly been tightened for the remaining matches of the ongoing Women’s World Cup 2025 in Navi Mumbai following the incident of molestation of two Australian players in Indore.
Navi Mumbai will host two of the last three matches of the tournament, including the final at the DY Patil Stadium.
‘Deep sorrow and shock’
Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) said it is deeply saddened and shocked by the disturbing incident of misbehavior and inappropriate behavior towards two players.
The association said, “No woman should ever have to endure such trauma, and our thoughts and support are with those affected by this tragic incident. This unfortunate incident has deeply affected all at MPCA, who cherish the values of respect, safety and dignity of women.”
“Over the years, Indore has earned a proud reputation as a safe venue for visiting teams and dignitaries from other regions. It is heartbreaking that the disorderly actions of one individual have caused so much damage and tarnished the city’s image,” the cricket body said.
It said, “As hosts, the MPCA sincerely apologizes to the Australian women’s team for this extremely sad and unfortunate incident in our city, which is known for its safety, grace and hospitality.”
(with inputs from agencies)
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