In the wake of a distressing incident in Indore, where two Australian women cricketers were stalked and molested during the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, the controversy has taken a fresh turn with comments from Madhya Pradesh’s Urban Development Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya. Known for his strong political presence in Indore, Vijayvargiya’s remarks have sparked widespread outrage, accused by many of shifting the blame onto the victims rather than addressing the lapses in security.
The incident occurred on October 23 when two Australian players, stepping out from their hotel to visit a café, were followed by a motorcyclist who touched one of them inappropriately. The prompt reporting by the players to their team security manager and local police led to the swift arrest of the suspect, Aqueel Khan, a man with prior criminal records. While the police assured action was underway, the matter took a politically sensitive turn after Vijayvargiya’s public statements.
“Look, there has been a lapse. But the players suddenly leaving from there without telling anyone — they didn’t even tell their coach – this is a mistake from their side too. Because there was personal security and police security too, but they left as no one noticed, and this incident happened,” Vijayvargiya was quoted as saying.
In a statement that many have found deeply troubling, Vijayvargiya suggested that the players bore some responsibility for the incident, emphasizing the need for sportspersons to inform local authorities whenever they step out, due to their high profile and resulting public attention. He compared the situation to fan encounters abroad, implying that the players’ lack of awareness about their popularity somehow contributed to the security breach.
This viewpoint has drawn heavy criticism from opposition parties and women’s rights groups alike. Women’s organizations have also condemned the comments, highlighting that safety protocols and protection should be the priority, not admonishing victims for perceived lapses.
Critics argue that Vijayvargiya’s remarks dangerously echo victim-blaming—a mindset that holds victims accountable for the crimes committed against them rather than focusing on the perpetrators or systemic failures. The Congress party voiced strong condemnation, accusing the minister of diverting attention from the security negligence that allowed such an incident to occur during a major international sporting event hosted in Indore.
This is not the first time Kailash Vijayvargiya has courted controversy with his remarks on gender and morality. His past statements, criticizing women’s clothing choices and making politically charged comments about Indian political families, have frequently ignited public debates. While his supporters claim that his words reflect the majority sentiment, many see his comments as reflective of outdated patriarchal attitudes that undermine women’s autonomy and safety.
As Indore grapples with the fallout of this incident, the focus must urgently return to ensuring the security of international sportspersons and fostering an environment where victims feel supported rather than scrutinized. The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup brings global attention to host cities, and Indore’s reputation—built through years of accolades as India’s cleanest city—now faces the challenge of demonstrating that it can be safe and respectful for all visitors, especially women athletes.
In the end, safeguarding athletes should be an unquestionable priority. Holding victims responsible only deepens the wound, whereas accountability for security agencies and a commitment to protect must be the message echoed loudly from every corner.
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