Opposition Criticises BJP Government After Alleged Molestation of Australian Women Cricketers in Indore

The alleged stalking and molestation of two Australian women cricketers in Indore has sparked political outrage, with opposition parties blaming the BJP-led Madhya Pradesh government for failing to ensure safety for women.

The incident occurred on Thursday night when the cricketers, in India for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, were returning to their hotel from a cafe around 11 pm. A man, later identified as Aqueel Sheikh, allegedly followed them on a bike, inappropriately touched one of the players, and fled.

The cricketers reported the incident to their security officer, Danny Simmons, after which a complaint was filed at MIG Road Police Station. An FIR was lodged under sections 74 (outraging modesty) and 78 (stalking) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Sheikh was arrested based on CCTV footage and reportedly admitted to the crime, claiming he “was just saying hello out of curiosity.”

The incident occurred just before the Women’s World Cup fifth match at Holkar Stadium in Indore.

Political Reactions

• Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi condemned the act, calling it “disgraceful” and highlighting the state’s failure to provide safe spaces for women.

• Congress state president Jitendra Patwari criticized the government’s law and order in Indore, calling the incident “shameful and reprehensible” and demanded CM Mohan Yadav take responsibility and ensure strict action.

• Congress added the event undermined India’s image and violated the principle of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’, reflecting a collapse in Madhya Pradesh’s law and order.

• TMC leaders also condemned the incident, saying it lowered India’s image globally and criticized the BJP for failing to protect women and guests. They demanded a fair investigation and strict punishment.

• Congress leader Pawan Khera called out BJP hypocrisy, urging all parties to unite against crimes targeting women rather than politicize incidents based on ruling parties.

BJP Response

• Madhya Pradesh minister Kailash Vijayvargiya condemned the alleged molestation and said strict action has been ordered against Sheikh, who was arrested during an Intensive Strategic Operation.

• BJP leaders, including Ajay Singh, emphasized the government’s quick action and promised that the accused would face harsh punishment.

• Vijayvargiya also stated that the government intends to introduce new laws to prevent similar incidents and reiterated their commitment to the safety of foreign nationals and women.

The incident has raised serious questions about women’s safety in Madhya Pradesh, particularly during high-profile international events.