Indore shocker: Two members of Australian women’s cricket team allegedly molested; accused held

In a shocking incident, two members of the Australian women’s cricket team, on a visit to India for the ongoing ICC Women’s World Cup, were allegedly molested in Indore, Madhya Pradesh while they were on their way to a cafe from their hotel.

The incident took place on October 23. Police said the Australian cricket team has filed a complaint and alleged that the two members faced inappropriate behaviour. Additional DCP Crime Branch, Rajesh Dandotiya, told the media that the accused has already been arrested and an FIR registered against him under Sections 74 and 78 of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita.

Advertisement

“The Security officers of the women’s Australian Cricket Team filed a complaint that two members of the team faced inappropriate behaviour. An FIR was registered, and the accused was identified and arrested following an Intensive Strategic Operation. The accused Aqueel is a resident of Azadnagar. He has been charged under sections 74 and 78 of the BNS,” Dandotiya said.

“The incident occurred around 11 am on 23rd October, when members of the women’s Australian Cricket Team were walking towards a cafe from their hotel. We are examining if there were any shortfalls in the security protocols,” he added.

The Australian cricket board, Cricket Australia, confirmed the incident and said in a statement: “CA can confirm two members of the Australian Women’s team were approached and touched inappropriately by a motorcyclist while walking to a cafe in Indore. The matter was reported by team security to police, who are handling the matter.”

#WATCH | MP | Two members of the women’s Australian Cricket team were allegedly molested while they were on their way to a cafe from their hotel in Indore on 23rd October

Additional DCP Crime Branch, Rajesh Dandotiya says, “The Security officers of the women’s Australian Cricket… pic.x.com/ekeLjtxxI2

— ANI (@ANI) October 25, 2025

The Board of Control for Cricket in India has condemned the incident, calling it unfortunate.

BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia told the media: “It is a very unfortunate incident. This type of incident brings disrepute. We appreciate the state police (Madhya Pradesh) for their prompt action to nab the culprit. Let the law take its course to punish the culprit.”

Reacting to the news, Madhya Pradesh Congress president Jitendra Patwari said the incident has brought shame to the country. He further called on the Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister to ensure those responsible for the incident are punished.

“When an international cricket match is organised in any city, the government plays an important role in the security of the players. Respecting and honouring guests is the responsibility of all of us. An incident like this happening in Indore is a matter of shame for all of us. The Chief Minister should take cognisance of this matter and ensure that whoever is responsible is duly punished,” Patwari said.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi also condemned the “disgraceful” act and said on X: “Disgraceful. We boast about economic growth, but, we continue to fail (to) provide safe spaces for women. What a shameful act.”