MP minister's remarks on molestation of Australian women cricketers face widespread criticism

Madhya Pradesh minister Kailash Vijayvargiya’s remarks on the alleged molestation of two Australian women cricketers in Indore have drawn criticism, with many calling his comments "embarrassing".

Vijayvargiya on Sunday said that the players should keep local authorities informed when stepping out, as they are "very popular in India". The two cricketers, who are in Indore for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, were stalked and one of them was molested by a motorcycle-borne man on Thursday morning.

Shiv Sena leader Aaditya Thackeray criticised the minister’s remarks, calling them 'shameful'. "What a shame! Obviously the government will not act on him, but in a time when we bid for Olympics, Commonwealth Games, and when we invite investors too, to India it is shameful to have such pathetic mentality in government," he said in a post on X. 

Many X users also took to the platform to criticise the minister’s remarks. "Do you know why India is failing to attract foreign tourists despite being a beautiful country? Because of people like MP Govt minister Kailash Vijayvargiya, who is blaming Australian women cricketers only for molestation instead of apologising. Shame," a X user posted. 

Another user said that the BJP leader has "No accountability, no responsibility, no decency, no morals,". 

The incident took place in the Khajrana Road area, and the accused was traced and arrested on Friday, an official said.

According to police, the two cricketers had stepped out of their hotel and were walking towards a cafe when a man on a motorcycle started following them. He allegedly touched one of them inappropriately and fled.

"Players must keep in mind that when they leave their place, their security and local administration should be informed because there is a huge craze for cricketers (in India)," Vijayvargiya said.