A senior Indian minister is facing strong criticism after suggesting two Australian women cricketers, who were “touched inappropriately” in Indore last week, should have informed authorities before leaving their hotel. The remarks have triggered a backlash, with many accusing him of victim blaming at a time when the incident has already drawn global outrage.
The harassment took place on Thursday when the cricketers were walking to a cafe in Indore. Police said the accused motorcyclist, who followed them from their hotel, has since been arrested.
Cricket Australia confirmed the incident and said it was reported immediately to security and local police. India’s cricket board called it “a deeply regrettable and isolated incident” and assured a review of safety measures for visiting teams.
Minister’s comments spark backlash
Despite widespread condemnation of the attack, Madhya Pradesh minister Kailash Vijayvargiya stirred controversy by suggesting the players should have taken extra precautions and notified officials of their plans.
“Whenever a player steps out… we tell a local. The players will also realise in the future that they should tell security or the administration,” he told reporters, adding that fans’ passion for cricket requires players to be “careful”.
Public figures and politicians slammed his remarks as insensitive. Congress leader Arun Yadav called them “disgusting and regressive”, while singer Chinmayi Sripaada wrote that the minister was effectively blaming the women for the crime.
Global anger and calls for accountability
Cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar demanded strict punishment, saying offenders should be jailed without leniency. Social media users expressed concern that such comments harm India’s global image and shift responsibility from perpetrators to victims.
Vijayvargiya later called the incident “shameful” but again insisted that players must inform security before stepping out. He has previously faced criticism for remarks seen as offensive to women, including comments about clothing choices.
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