Madhya Pradesh Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Kailash Vijayvargiya has sparked outrage after blaming Australian women cricketers for the recent harassment incident in Indore.
Two Australian women cricketers were allegedly harassed two days ago when a man on a motorcycle touched one of them inappropriately while they were walking from their hotel to a café. Police later confirmed the arrest of a suspect involved in the incident.
Instead of condemning the act, Vijayvargiya, a senior leader of India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), said that the players were at fault for going out without informing local authorities.
“It was their mistake to go out without informing anyone. They will learn a lesson from this incident and be more careful in the future,” the BJP minister said.
The minister’s remarks have triggered strong criticism across political and social circles. He also admitted that the harassment of the Australian women cricketers reflected a failure in local security arrangements.
Opposition leaders and women’s rights activists have condemned Vijayvargiya’s comments, saying they reflect a “victim-blaming” attitude and the lack of accountability among those in power.
Rahul Gandhi’s Congress Party sharply criticized the statement, calling it “shameful and insensitive.” Congress leader Arun Yadav said, “The minister’s remarks reflect the disgusting and shameful mentality of the BJP. The entire nation is embarrassed by this incident.”
The harassment incident has also raised concerns about the safety of foreign players visiting India for sporting events. Social media users have demanded stricter action against the accused and a public apology from the minister for his comments.
In other news read more about Security Concerns Mount As Australian Cricketers Assaulted During Women’s World Cup In India
Authorities have promised a thorough investigation, while police continue to ensure enhanced security arrangements for international visitors.
