Aaditya Thackeray, leader of the Shiv Sena (UBT), criticized remarks made by Madhya Pradesh minister Kailash Vijayvargiya concerning the alleged molestation of two Australian women cricketers in Indore. Thackeray described Vijayvargiya’s comments as indicative of a “pathetic mentality in government,” stating, “As much as embarrassing the incident of @AusWomenCricket members is, the Madhya Pradesh minister calling them out and saying it’s a lesson to be ‘more careful’ makes it even worse.”
Thackeray condemned Vijayvargiya’s failure to address women’s safety adequately, questioning whether it is a crime for women, including cricketers, to walk in public spaces. He expressed disappointment that the government is unlikely to take action against the minister and emphasized that such remarks are particularly damaging during a time when India is vying for major sporting events and inviting foreign investment.
On the incident in question, police reported that two Australian cricketers were allegedly stalked and one was molested by a man on a motorcycle while they were walking to a café near their hotel in Indore, ahead of a scheduled match against South Africa. The cricketers had exited the hotel without notifying their team’s management, which Vijayvargiya characterized as a “mistake from their side.”
Vijayvargiya noted that while there was an apparent failure in security, the players’ unannounced departure contributed to the incident. He remarked, “This incident is a lesson for all,” suggesting that it could serve as a cautionary tale about the importance of personal security.
Following the incident, police acted swiftly, arresting a suspect, identified as Aqueel Sheikh, who reportedly has a criminal history. The Australian team’s security had lodged a complaint regarding “inappropriate behavior,” leading to the registration of an FIR under provisions related to outraging a woman’s modesty and stalking.
Navi Mumbai’s security has been heightened in response to the incident as it prepares to host the remaining matches of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup. The Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) expressed deep distress and shock over the incident, asserting that no woman should endure such behavior. The organization conveyed its apologies to the Australian women’s team while reaffirming its commitment to safety and dignity for all individuals in their care.
The MPCA stated, “It is deeply painful that the disorderly action of one individual has caused such harm and cast a shadow over the city’s image,” reiterating their longstanding reputation as a safe venue for visiting teams.
