The alleged stalking and molestation of two Australian women cricketers in Indore has ignited a political firestorm, with opposition parties pointing fingers at the BJP-led Madhya Pradesh government for failing to provide a safe environment for women.
However, the Bharatiya Janata Party defended its government’s actions, emphasizing the swift arrest of the accused, identified as Aqueel Sheikh.
The incident occurred on Thursday night when the two Australian cricketers, participating in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, were returning to their hotel. The accused reportedly followed them on a bike and inappropriately touched one of the cricketers before fleeing the scene. Following a complaint lodged by the cricketers’ security officer, an FIR was registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) concerning outrage of modesty and stalking.
Police apprehended the accused based on CCTV footage. Reports indicate that the accused has a prior criminal record and confessed to the act, stating curiosity as his motive.
Political Reactions Pour In
The Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have condemned the incident. However, the matter quickly escalated into a political debate.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi expressed her dismay, calling the act “disgraceful” and highlighting the failure to provide safe spaces for women despite economic progress.
Congress state unit president Jitendra Patwari criticized the incident, questioning the law and order situation in Indore, which is personally overseen by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav. He stated that the “filth” in the city cannot be ignored and that the failure to provide security to guests is a testament to the government’s shortcomings.
The Congress party also commented on the incident, asserting that it proves the BJP government’s failure and tarnishes the ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ (Guest is God) principle. They argued that the breach in security highlights a collapse of law and order in Madhya Pradesh and criticized BJP leaders for their silence on such matters.
The Trinamool Congress (TMC) also voiced its condemnation, suggesting the incident has damaged India’s global image. TMC leaders demanded a fair investigation and swift punishment for the accused, questioning whether the real perpetrators have been identified.
Congress leader Pawan Khera accused the BJP of hypocrisy, noting that the party often protests only when such incidents occur in states governed by the Congress. He urged for a united voice across party lines to address crimes against women and implement policies that foster a safer environment.
Government’s Response
Madhya Pradesh minister Kailash Vijayvargiya condemned the molestation and assured that the government has ordered strict action against the accused. He emphasized that the incident is shameful for both Indore and the country, and that exemplary punishment should be given to deter future occurrences.
BJP leader Ajay Singh also condemned the act, confirming the quick arrest of the accused and promising the harshest penalties. He added that the government plans to introduce new legislation to prevent such incidents, reaffirming the BJP’s commitment to the safety of women and foreign nationals.