Harassment incident sparks international concern
The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in India has been overshadowed by a disturbing incident in Indore, where two members of the Australian women’s team were allegedly harassed while walking to a nearby café. The players, who had stepped out a day after their victory over England, were reportedly followed and inappropriately touched by a man on a motorcycle.
A police complaint was promptly filed after the team’s security manager received a distress message from one of the cricketers stating, “… there is a guy following us trying to grab us,” according to a Times of India report. A police patrol escorted the players back to their hotel, and a man — identified as a 30-year-old with a criminal history — was arrested following an operation by local authorities.
“A FIR (first information report) was registered, and the accused was identified and arrested following an intensive strategic operation,” said Rajesh Dandotiya, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police, Crime Branch, in a statement to ANI.
“We are examining if there were any shortfalls in the security protocols,” Dandotiya added.
Minister’s comments fuel outrage
What began as a serious safety concern escalated into a national controversy after Kailash Vijayvargiya, a senior BJP leader and Minister in Madhya Pradesh, made remarks that many viewed as shifting blame onto the victims.
“While there was a security lapse, it was also the players’ responsibility to inform local authorities before going out. They didn’t inform anyone,” Vijayvargiya told reporters.
“But they will learn a lesson from this incident and stay cautious in the future.”
His remarks have been widely condemned as insensitive, especially given the context of gender-based violence in India. Despite public outrage, Vijayvargiya continued to double down on his comments.
“Sometimes, players don’t realise their popularity. Players are very popular, so they should be careful,” he said.
“This incident has happened; it’s a lesson for everyone. It’s a lesson for us and for the players as well.”
Vijayvargiya further elaborated, as quoted by NDTV, “Whenever any player goes anywhere, even when we go out, we always inform at least one local person.”
“I think this will remind the players that in the future, if we leave our venue, we should inform our security or local administration before leaving, as there is a huge craze for cricket players.”
The comments have sparked backlash online and in media circles, with critics calling them “tone-deaf” and “victim-blaming,” especially during a high-profile international tournament hosted by India.
BCCI and Cricket Australia respond
In response to the incident, Devajit Saikia, Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), issued a statement expressing regret.
“We appreciate the swift and effective action taken by the Madhya Pradesh Police in apprehending the accused. The law will take its due course to ensure justice is served.”
He added that the BCCI would be taking further steps to safeguard players in the future.
“We will also review our existing safety protocols and strengthen them further, if necessary, to ensure such incidents are not repeated.”
Official statement of Mr Devajit Saikia, Honorary Secretary, BCCI condemning the incident towards the Australian cricketers in Indore
“This is a deeply regrettable and isolated incident. India has always been known for its warmth, hospitality, and care towards all guests. We…
— BCCI (@BCCI) October 25, 2025
Cricket Australia confirmed that the matter had been reported by the team’s security to the police and that local law enforcement had taken over the case. While the names of the players involved have not been disclosed, the incident has raised broader questions about the safety of international athletes in India.
Renewed scrutiny on player safety and host responsibilities
The episode has reignited debates around player security and gender-based violence in India, a country that reported an average of nearly 90 rapes per day in 2022. Critics argue that beyond isolated arrests, deeper structural reforms and cultural shifts are needed.
With the Women’s World Cup ongoing, the spotlight remains not only on the performances on the field but also on how seriously host nations take the safety and dignity of international players — and how public officials respond when those standards are violated.
