Sunil Gavaskar has expressed its strong outrage at the shocking sexual assault of two people Australian women cricketers in Madhya Pradesh’s Indore, calling for the strictest punishment for the accused. The incident, which took place on Thursday morning, has sparked national outrage and global condemnation, tarnishing India’s reputation amid the ongoing crisis. ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025.
Sunil Gavaskar blasts heinous act
Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar condemned the incident in stern terms, labeling it a disgrace to the country’s values. Speaking to India Today, Gavaskar said the attack on visiting athletes was against India’s fundamental belief of Atithi Devo Bhava (Guest is God). The legend expressed his anger, stating that such actions reflect a deep moral decline and required uncompromising justice. “You lock him up and throw away the keys. That is the only way such criminals should be treated” he said, urging the justice system to punish quickly.
The incident has overshadowed the Australian team’s World Cup campaign. The players, who had recently defeated Englandwere walking to a nearby cafe when a motorcyclist, identified as a 29-year-old, arrived Aqeel Khanallegedly stalked and abused them.
According to the police report, one of the players was touched inappropriately before the suspect fled the scene. The Australian security official immediately alerted the authorities, leading to a swift investigation involving the crime branch of the Indore police. CCTV footage and eyewitness accounts played a crucial role in locating and arresting the suspect within hours
Police investigations have revealed that Khan is a repeat offender with a history of criminal charges including theft, assault and attempted murder. He was recently released from Bhairavgarh jail after serving a 10-year sentence. Authorities are now assessing possible shortcomings in local security arrangements and have enhanced protection for all World Cup teams following the event.
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BCCI and the authorities condemn the incident
BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla expressed deep regret over the incident, calling it a “unfortunate and unacceptable“Breach of security He confirmed that the board is in communication with the Australian team and the ICC to ensure the remainder of the tournament is conducted safely.
Shukla stated that the BCCI is reviewing security protocols for all visiting players and will support all investigations until justice is served. “No one could have foreseen something like this and it should not have happened to anyone. The police acted quickly and we trust that the law will do its job” he said
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia also condemned the act and emphasized that such behavior damages India’s reputation as a global cricket hub. Madhya Pradesh Police, led by Sub-Inspector Nidhi Raghuvanshi and Deputy Commissioner Himani Mishraregistered an FIR under sections 74 and 78 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for assault and stalking. The suspect’s motorcycle was identified through camera footage and a note from a bystander with the license plate number, making a quick arrest possible.
The incident has led to political uproar in Madhya Pradesh, with opposition leaders accusing the state government of negligence in women’s safety. Meanwhile, government officials, including Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya and MPCA President Mahaanaryaman Scindiaassured that the perpetrator would receive an exemplary punishment. Global cricket communities have also expressed solidarity with the victims and called for extra vigilance to ensure the safety of female athletes worldwide
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This article was first published on WomenCricket.coma Cricket Times company.
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