INDORE: Madhya Pradesh cabinet minister Kailash Vijayvargiya, a senior leader of India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has sparked controversy after suggesting that two Australian women cricketers, allegedly harassed in Indore last week, should have exercised greater caution.
Vijayvargiya described the incident as a “lesson in safety awareness” for athletes, urging players to inform security or local authorities before stepping out of team accommodations.
“Sometimes, players don’t realise how popular they are and the kind of crowds they attract,” the minister said. “They should be careful. This incident is a lesson for everyone. Teams should coordinate with security before leaving their hotels.”
He acknowledged a security lapse but also insisted that players share responsibility for their movements, telling reporters that both the administration and athletes must “work together” to prevent such incidents.
Details of the incident
According to officials, two Australian players were harassed and inappropriately touched by a motorcyclist while walking to a café in Indore on Thursday morning.
The players immediately informed team security, who filed a First Information Report (FIR) with police.
Authorities said the incident took place near Ring Road, approximately 500 metres from the team hotel and away from the Holkar Stadium, where Australia’s Women’s World Cup fixtures were being played.
Police swiftly launched a manhunt and arrested a suspect with a prior criminal record within six hours. He now faces charges under India’s new criminal code related to molestation and stalking.
Strong condemnation from cricket authorities
Both Cricket Australia (CA) and India’s cricket board (BCCI) strongly condemned the episode.
The Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) issued an apology, calling the assault a “stain” on Indore’s reputation for hospitality and safety.
Officials from both boards confirmed that security protocols are being reviewed and will be tightened for the remainder of the tournament, in coordination with local police.
International media outlets, including Reuters and Associated Press, reported that the suspect was tracked down using CCTV footage and detained on the same day.
Wider impact and ongoing debate
The Australian team has remained in Indore for their subsequent World Cup matches against England and South Africa.
The incident has reignited debate over off-field safety for women athletes, especially during high-profile international events.
Both national boards have indicated that additional safety measures may be implemented for visiting players to ensure a secure environment for the rest of the tournament
