Accused arrested; BCCI regrets incident
NEW DELHI, Oct 25: In a shocking incident that has sparked global outrage, two Australian women cricketers were allegedly molested and “touched inappropriately” by a biker in Indore on Thursday morning while walking to a nearby cafe.
The incident, which happened during the ongoing Women’s World Cup, has sparked a storm on social media and led to strong criticism from international media concerning women’s safety in India.
Cricket Australia confirmed the disturbing incident in an official statement, saying, “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.”
According to police, the incident took place around 11 am near Khajrana Road. The suspect, named Aqeel Khan, allegedly followed two players on his motorcycle, inappropriately touched one of them, and then fled the scene. Swift coordination between the Australian team’s security officer Danny Simmons and local police resulted in a quick investigation. CCTV footage, eyewitness testimonies, and hotel records helped trace and arrest the suspect within 24 hours.
Officials revealed that Khan, who was riding a black motorcycle, has prior criminal cases registered against him. An FIR was filed under Section 74 (use of criminal force to outrage a woman’s modesty) and Section 78 (stalking) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
The Madhya Pradesh police confirmed that a bystander who recorded the motorcycle’s number played a crucial role in identifying the perpetrator. “The suspect’s vehicle and description matched the details provided by the witnesses,” an officer stated, adding that further investigation is ongoing.
The incident has provoked widespread condemnation from both domestic and international quarters. Several foreign media outlets questioned how India – which is preparing to host major tournaments in the upcoming years – can guarantee the safety of visiting players if such incidents happen in broad daylight.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia on Saturday issued an official statement on the case of molestation of Australian women cricketers ahead of their Women’s ODI World Cup match in Indore, terming it as “a deeply regrettable and isolated incident”.
Saikia, in his official statement, condemned the incident in Indore that happened on Thursday.
“This is a deeply regrettable and isolated incident. India has always been known for its warmth, hospitality, and care towards all guests. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards such acts. We appreciate the swift and effective action taken by the Madhya Pradesh Police in apprehending the accused. The law will take its due course to ensure justice is served. We will also review our existing safety protocols and strengthen them further, if necessary, to ensure such incidents are not repeated,” Saikia said. (IANS)
