By: The Trek News Desk
A remark by Madhya Pradesh minister Kailash Vijayvargiya has triggered a nationwide backlash after he suggested that two Australian women cricketers, who were allegedly harassed in Indore last week, should have informed security officials before stepping out of their hotel.
The comment, widely criticised online, has reignited the debate over victim-blaming and women’s safety in India.
What Happened in Indore
The incident took place last Thursday, when two members of the Australian women’s team were walking from their hotel to a nearby café in Indore.
According to police, a man harassed and touched the players inappropriately before fleeing the scene. The accused was later arrested.
Cricket Australia confirmed the details in a statement, saying the players were “approached and inappropriately touched by a motorcyclist” just a day after their team’s victory over England.
BCCI Condemns the Incident, Gavaskar Demands Tough Action
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) condemned the act, calling it “a deeply regrettable and shameful incident.”
The board said it would review and strengthen safety protocols for visiting players to prevent such episodes in the future.
Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar reacted strongly, telling a TV channel,
“You lock him up and throw away the key. That’s the only punishment such criminals deserve.”
Vijayvargiya’s Comment Sparks Controversy
While the cricket fraternity demanded justice, Urban Development Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya stirred controversy on Sunday when he suggested that the players bore partial responsibility.
“This should be a lesson for both the players and the administration,” he told reporters. “Whenever we step out, we inform local authorities. The players should have done the same.”
He further added that athletes should be cautious while moving around publicly, given their immense popularity in India.
“Cricket here is like football in England; fans can get carried away. Sometimes players don’t realise how famous they are,” he said.
Political and Public Backlash
Vijayvargiya’s comments drew swift condemnation from opposition leaders, activists, and the public.
Congress leader Arun Yadav called the remarks “disgusting and regressive,” while singer Chinmayi Sripaada accused the minister of outright victim-blaming.
“He’s basically saying that women visiting another city or country are responsible for ensuring their own safety, implying it was their fault,” Sripaada wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Another social media user commented,
“At a time when India’s image is already under scrutiny after this shameful incident, such victim-blaming statements by a public official only deepen the embarrassment.”
Minister’s Clarification Fails to Quell Outrage
Amid growing criticism, Vijayvargiya later described the assault as “shameful” and said strict action had been taken against the accused.
However, he reiterated that the players “should have informed their security officer before going out,” a statement that did little to calm the backlash.
This is not the first time the minister has been at the centre of controversy.
Earlier this year, Vijayvargiya drew criticism for remarks saying he “does not like women who wear short or revealing clothes” and that he had once refused to take photos with them.
Source: News Agencies
