Rajeev Shukla Condemns Indore Incident
In a deeply unfortunate incident that has cast a shadow over the ongoing Women’s World Cup 2025, two Australian women cricketers were allegedly inappropriately touched by a motorcyclist in Indore on Thursday morning. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Madhya Pradesh Police have swiftly responded to the matter, assuring strict action and enhanced security measures.
The two players, who are part of the Australian women’s team currently based in Indore ahead of their clash against South Africa, were reportedly walking to a nearby café from their hotel when the incident took place around 11 a.m. on October 23.
According to Cricket Australia’s (CA) official statement, the two cricketers were “approached and touched inappropriately by a motorcyclist” while they were on foot. The matter was immediately reported by the team’s security staff to local police, and an FIR was registered shortly after.
“CA can confirm two members of the Australian Women’s team were approached and touched inappropriately by a motorcyclist while walking to a cafe in Indore. The matter was reported by team security to police, who are handling the matter,”
said Cricket Australia in an official statement, as quoted by Fox Sports Australia.
BCCI Strongly Condemns the Incident
Reacting to the news, BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla called the episode “very unfortunate” and emphasized that such acts tarnish the nation’s image. He assured that the BCCI, along with the Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association, will take all necessary steps to prevent such incidents in the future.
“The entire incident is very unfortunate, and we condemn it. Such incidents should not happen. People should take care of foreign players who have come as guests to our nation. Whatever steps need to be taken at the level of BCCI and Madhya Pradesh Cricket, we will take all required steps and precautions. The police have nabbed the accused,” Shukla told ANI.
Earlier, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia also expressed his disapproval and commended the Indore Police for their swift action.
“Very unfortunate incident, and this type of incident brings disrepute. I appreciate the State Police for their prompt action to nab the culprit. Let the law take its course to punish the culprit,” Saikia said.
Police Identify and Arrest the Accused
Indore’s Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime Branch), Rajesh Dandotiyan, confirmed that the accused, identified as Aqueel, a resident of Azadnagar was arrested after an intensive search operation.
“The Security officers of the Australian women’s cricket team filed a complaint that two members of the team faced inappropriate behaviour. An FIR was registered, and the accused was identified and arrested following an Intensive Strategic Operation,” Dandotiyan told ANI.
The accused has been charged under Sections 74 and 78 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Police officials also stated that they are examining whether there were any lapses in the security arrangements provided to the visiting team.
Cricketing World Stands United
The incident has sparked outrage across the cricketing community, with calls for stricter security for international teams traveling in India. The Australian camp, while shaken by the episode, has expressed confidence in the local authorities’ handling of the situation.
As the Women’s World Cup continues, both cricket boards have assured that player safety remains a top priority, ensuring such an incident does not occur again.