Cricket Australia issue statement on harassment, molestation of cricketers in Indore | Cricket News
Two Australian women cricketers participating in the Women’s World Cup were molested and touched inappropriately by a motorcyclist while walking to a cafe in Indore on Thursday morning, Cricket Australia confirmed on Saturday. The incident was reported to the police, who subsequently arrested the accused, Akil Khan.Cricket Australia released a statement confirming the incident: “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.”The incident occurred around 11am on Thursday when the players were walking to a cafe approximately half a kilometre from their hotel. The motorcyclist followed them, inappropriately touched one of them, and rode away.The players immediately informed their team security officer, Danny Simmons, who coordinated with local security liaison officers and arranged for a vehicle to assist them.The police investigation involved examining CCTV footage, hotel records, and security personnel statements. A bystander’s recollection of the motorcycle number helped police track down and arrest Khan on Friday.The First Information Report was filed at the MIG police station under Section 74 (use of criminal force to outrage a woman’s modesty) and Section 78 (stalking) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.Police confirmed that Khan, who has prior criminal cases registered against him, was riding a black motorcycle when he approached the players, slowed down, touched them inappropriately, and fled the scene.“The suspect’s motorcycle aligned precisely with the eyewitness description and number plate. Khan has prior criminal cases registered against him, and an investigation is ongoing,” police officials stated.The Australian women’s team is currently in Indore for a crucial match against South Africa that will determine which team tops the points table as the tournament approaches the semi-final stage.State minister Kailash Vijayvargiya addressed the media regarding the incident: “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 further emphasised the Madhya Pradesh government’s zero-tolerance policy in such matters, stating that if anyone is found guilty in the investigation, they should face legal action along with a punishment that sets an example for others.
