New Delhi [India], October 25 : Congress leader Pawan Khera on Saturday slammed the BJP for "hypocrisy" after the two Australian women cricketers were "approached and touched inappropriately by a motorcyclist" in Indore, saying that the ruling party protests if such incidents happen in Congress-governed states.
Speaking to ANI, Khera asked all the leaders across party lines to raise a voice against crimes against women.
"Such incidents are on the rise, but unfortunately, the BJP only hits the roads when it happens in Congress-ruled states. This hypocrisy would not improve the situation of women's safety. All the parties must raise their voices unitedly against crimes against women and work on policies to create a safe environment for women," the Congress leader said.
Cricket Australia released a statement to confirm that two members of the Australian women's team were allegedly "approached and touched inappropriately by a motorcyclist" on Thursday.
The Australian team is currently in Indore for the ongoing Women's World Cup. On Thursday morning, two Australian women's cricketers left their team hotel and headed to a cafe when the incident occurred.
The Australian team's management security complained about the "inappropriate behaviour" faced by the two players, and an FIR was subsequently registered.
Indore's Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (Addl DCP, Crime Branch), Rajesh Dandotiyan, confirmed that the accused, Aqueel, was identified and arrested following an Intensive Strategic Operation.
Earlier, Madhya Pradesh Congress President Jitendra Patwari condemned the incident and asked Chief Minister Mohan Yadav to take cognisance of the case.
The Congress leader said, "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. Chief Minister should take cognisance of this matter and ensure that whoever is responsible is duly punished," he added.