RCA probes Bharatpur secretary over harassment allegations:Four-member panel to investigate complaints against official

The Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA) has constituted a four-member inquiry committee to investigate serious allegations against Bharatpur District Cricket Association Secretary Shatrughan Tiwari, including claims of harassment and molestation involving women players. The development was announced on Friday by Dr. Mohit Yadav, Convenor of the RCA Ad Hoc Committee, while attending the association’s Annual General Body Meeting (AGM). Four-member committee to submit report within 25 days Dr. Yadav said he could not disclose further details because the allegations may involve offences covered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. He stated that the committee has been directed to complete its investigation and submit a report within 25 days. The panel will record statements from the complainants, witnesses, and the accused secretary before presenting its findings to the RCA Ad Hoc Committee. Lifetime ban promised if allegations are proven According to Dr. Yadav, if the Bharatpur District Cricket Association official is found guilty, strict disciplinary action will be taken, including a lifetime ban from the RCA. He added that the decision to impose severe penalties on anyone found responsible was taken unanimously during the meeting. The RCA will also write to the government seeking legal action if the inquiry establishes wrongdoing, with the aim of preventing similar incidents in the future. Appeal to women players to come forward Dr. Yadav urged women cricketers across Rajasthan to report any instances of misconduct or abuse. He assured players that the RCA would support them in filing police complaints and provide assistance wherever necessary. He also encouraged girls and women athletes to speak up against any form of inappropriate behavior so that strict action could be taken against offenders. First such complaint involving women players, says RCA official Dr. Yadav noted that while the RCA has previously received complaints regarding irregularities in player selection and financial management in district cricket associations, this is the first time it has received allegations related to the harassment of women players. He emphasized that the RCA intends to handle the matter with transparency and strictness. If the accused is cleared by the investigation, his recognition and standing within the association would be restored. Other issues discussed during the AGM The convenor also said the Ad Hoc Committee wants to conduct pending RCA elections but has been unable to do so because several district cricket associations remain embroiled in disputes. The AGM also discussed: Secretary denies allegations, demands FIR and independent probe Responding to the accusations, Bharatpur District Cricket Association Secretary Shatrughan Tiwari categorically denied all allegations. He said he is willing to face an investigation by the police, the Special Operations Group (SOG), or any other competent agency, but insisted that an FIR should first be registered against him, followed by an impartial inquiry. Tiwari also questioned the authority of the RCA Ad Hoc Committee to conduct such an investigation and alleged that Convenor Mohit Yadav was attempting to install preferred individuals in the Bharatpur District Cricket Association. He further stated that if the allegations against him are proven, he would quit cricket for life.