Two Australian women cricketers were harassed and inappropriately touched by a motorcyclist while walking to a café in Indore on Thursday morning, Cricket Australia confirmed. The accused, identified as Akil Khan, was promptly arrested, and investigations are ongoing.
Cricket Australia stated: “CA can confirm two members of the Australian Women’s team were approached and touched inappropriately by a motorcyclist while walking to a café in Indore. The matter was reported by team security to police, who are handling the matter.”
The incident occurred around 11 am, roughly half a kilometre from the players’ hotel. The motorcyclist reportedly followed them, inappropriately touched one player, and fled the scene. The players immediately informed their team security officer, Danny Simmons, who coordinated with local security and arranged a vehicle to ensure their safety.
Police investigations involved reviewing CCTV footage, hotel records, and statements from security personnel and witnesses. A bystander’s information on the motorcycle’s number plate helped authorities track down Khan. He was arrested on Friday and has been charged under Sections 74 (use of criminal force to outrage a woman’s modesty) and 78 (stalking) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Police noted that Khan has prior criminal cases registered against him.
Speaking on the incident, Madhya Pradesh state minister Kailash Vijayvargiya said: “This is not just misbehaviour with a woman player, but a stain on India’s image. Strictest action must be taken against those responsible so that no one dares to tarnish the nation’s reputation in the future.” He also reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance stance and called for a punishment that serves as an example.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India ( BCCI ) strongly condemned the incident. Secretary Devajit Saikia described it as “very condemnable but stray” and reaffirmed the board’s commitment to player safety. “India is known for its hospitality and care. We have zero tolerance for such incidents. We appreciate the State Police (Madhya Pradesh) for their prompt action to nab the culprit. Let the law take its course to punish the culprit. We assure to revisit our safety protocols if required to further tighten the security,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Australian team continued their strong World Cup campaign, defeating South Africa by seven wickets in their final group-stage match in Indore. The win ensured they topped the group with 13 points from seven games, setting up a semi-final clash against Harmanpreet Kaur’s India.
The incident has sparked outrage, highlighting the need for enhanced security measures for visiting teams and raising questions about player safety during international tournaments in India.
Cricket Australia stated: “CA can confirm two members of the Australian Women’s team were approached and touched inappropriately by a motorcyclist while walking to a café in Indore. The matter was reported by team security to police, who are handling the matter.”
The incident occurred around 11 am, roughly half a kilometre from the players’ hotel. The motorcyclist reportedly followed them, inappropriately touched one player, and fled the scene. The players immediately informed their team security officer, Danny Simmons, who coordinated with local security and arranged a vehicle to ensure their safety.
Police investigations involved reviewing CCTV footage, hotel records, and statements from security personnel and witnesses. A bystander’s information on the motorcycle’s number plate helped authorities track down Khan. He was arrested on Friday and has been charged under Sections 74 (use of criminal force to outrage a woman’s modesty) and 78 (stalking) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Police noted that Khan has prior criminal cases registered against him.
Speaking on the incident, Madhya Pradesh state minister Kailash Vijayvargiya said: “This is not just misbehaviour with a woman player, but a stain on India’s image. Strictest action must be taken against those responsible so that no one dares to tarnish the nation’s reputation in the future.” He also reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance stance and called for a punishment that serves as an example.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India ( BCCI ) strongly condemned the incident. Secretary Devajit Saikia described it as “very condemnable but stray” and reaffirmed the board’s commitment to player safety. “India is known for its hospitality and care. We have zero tolerance for such incidents. We appreciate the State Police (Madhya Pradesh) for their prompt action to nab the culprit. Let the law take its course to punish the culprit. We assure to revisit our safety protocols if required to further tighten the security,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Australian team continued their strong World Cup campaign, defeating South Africa by seven wickets in their final group-stage match in Indore. The win ensured they topped the group with 13 points from seven games, setting up a semi-final clash against Harmanpreet Kaur’s India.
The incident has sparked outrage, highlighting the need for enhanced security measures for visiting teams and raising questions about player safety during international tournaments in India.
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