Australian women cricketers’ harassment triggers political row in Madhya Pradesh

The stalking and sexual harassment of two members of the Australian women’s cricket team in Indore has sparked a political row in Madhya Pradesh.

The Congress described the incident as “proof of the failure of the Bharatiya Janata Party government”.

“This incident not only brings shame to the country but also tears apart the spirit of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ [Guest is God],” the party said in a social media post.

The Trinamool Congress said that the episode has tarnished India’s image internationally.

“Two Australian women cricketers were molested in an ICC-organised world cricket championship in BJP-ruled Indore,” PTI quoted TMC state general secretary Kunal Ghosh as saying. “This happens during the double-engine government rule. It has lowered our heads before the entire world.”

Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said in a statement that police acted swiftly and arrested the accused within a few hours, PTI reported.

“This action by the state government and police sends a clear message: women’s safety and law enforcement are paramount, and criminals will not be spared,” he was quoted as saying.

The incident took place on Thursday morning when the two players were walking to a cafe near their hotel in Indore, Madhya Pradesh.

The cricketers are in India for the 13th edition of the ICC Women’s World Cup. The Australian team had played England at Holkar Stadium in...

Read more