Sunil Gavaskar has expressed deep dismay regarding the troubling incident involving the mistreatment of two Australia women cricketers in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, insisting on the most severe consequences for those responsible. The event, which unfolded on Thursday morning, has sparked widespread anger and condemnation internationally, casting a shadow over India’s image during the ongoing ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025.
Sunil Gavaskar expresses outrage at the disturbing event
Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar strongly denounced the incident, considering it a blemish on the nation’s principles. Speaking on a news channel, Gavaskar commented that the offense against the visiting sportswomen contradicted India’s core tenet of Atithi Devo Bhava (Guest is God). With noticeable displeasure, the veteran mentioned that these actions signal a significant ethical downfall and advocated for uncompromising judicial action. “Lock them up and discard the keys. That’s the only fitting action for these types of criminals,” he commented, pushing for the judicial system to administer quick justice.
The episode has negatively impacted the Australian squad’s World Cup journey. The athletes, recently victorious against England, were en route to a nearby coffee shop when a motorcycle rider, recognized as 29-year-old Aqeel Khan, reportedly pursued and mistreated them.
According to the official police report, one of the athletes was touched inappropriately before the suspect escaped. The Australian security personnel promptly informed the police, leading to an immediate investigation involving the Indore Police’s Crime Branch. Closed-circuit television recordings and witness testimonies were critical in identifying and detaining the suspect quickly.
Law enforcement investigations have revealed that Khan has a background of criminal activities, including allegations of robbery, assault, and attempted murder. He was recently discharged from Bhairavgarh Jail following a ten-year sentence. The authorities are now examining possible deficiencies in the local security measures and have increased security for all World Cup teams after the incident.
BCCI and authorities voice disapproval of the incident
BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla conveyed his profound distress over the occurrence, labeling it a regrettable and unacceptable lapse in safety. He verified that the Board is in communication with the Australian team and the ICC to guarantee the safe continuation of the tournament.
Shukla stated that the BCCI is reassessing safety procedures for all visiting athletes and will support all investigations until justice is realized. “No one could have foreseen an incident like this, and it should never occur to anyone. The police have taken swift action, and we are confident the legal process will proceed accordingly,” he commented.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia also condemned the act, emphasizing that such behavior harms India’s standing as a premier cricket location. The Madhya Pradesh Police, with Sub-Inspector Nidhi Raghuvanshi and Assistant Commissioner Himani Mishra leading the investigation, filed a report under Sections 74 and 78 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for mistreatment and stalking. Identification of the accused’s motorcycle via closed-circuit television footage and a witness’s record of the license plate led to a prompt arrest.
The incident has incited political disturbance in Madhya Pradesh, with opposition leaders criticizing the state administration for a lack of attention to women’s safety. Conversely, government representatives, including Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya and MPCA president Mahaanaryaman Scindia, affirmed that the perpetrator would be subjected to significant punishment. International cricket communities have also voiced their support for the affected athletes, advocating for greater caution to assure the safety of women athletes globally.
This article was initially published on WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times associated venture.
