‘Sexual harassment’ of woman cricketer: MSCW summons MCA officials

By Our Reporter

SHILLONG, May 22: The Meghalaya State Commission for Women (MSCW) has summoned four present and former officials of the Meghalaya Cricket Association (MCA) over alleged failure to act on complaints of sexual harassment lodged by members of the state Under-23 women’s cricket team.

The commission has directed MCA honorary secretary Rayonald Kharkamni, former MCA president Nababrata Bhattacharjee, former treasurer Dhrubajyoti Thakuria, and former cricket operations manager Shining Star Lyngdoh to appear before it on May 26.

According to notices issued by the commission, the officials allegedly knew about complaints of sexual harassment faced by members of the women’s Under-23 cricket team, but failed to initiate appropriate action.

The allegations were reportedly directed at the team’s head coach and team manager, both of whom had earlier appeared before the commission as part of the ongoing inquiry.

Speaking to The Shillong Times, MSCW chairperson Iamonlang Syiem said the commission would refrain from making comments until completion of the inquiry process.

“We will have the hearing on this case on May 26. Maybe, after the hearing, I can comment,” she said.

Sources alleged that the women players had earlier approached MCA office-bearers regarding their grievances, but no action was taken on their complaints.

According to the sources, the team manager had allegedly called members of the women’s cricket team to his room and forced them to consume alcohol. It was also alleged that inappropriate remarks were made against the players during practice sessions, which reportedly caused them mental distress.

The commission observed that the MCA did not initiate any internal inquiry after the complaints surfaced, and neither of the accused officials was reportedly suspended or removed from their positions.

In letters issued on May 14 to the officials concerned, the commission stated that complaints had been registered before the MSCW, alleging that they failed to respond appropriately despite being aware of the allegations.

“…the Commission has taken cognisance of the matter in exercise of its powers and functions under the Meghalaya State Commission for Women Act, 2005,” the notice stated.

The commission further directed the officials to produce all relevant records, internal correspondence, reports, complaints, and other documents connected to the matter during their appearance. (Contd on P-7)