MPs demand a probe into IPL

New Delhi: Against the backdrop of alleged molestation of a woman by an Australian player in IPL, a demand was made in the Lok Sabha for a high level probe into the affairs of the tournament, with a BJP member threatening to go on a hunger strike from Sunday if no action was taken.

Former cricketer Kirti Azad (BJP) raised the issue during Zero Hour, alleging that the IPL had converted cricket into just entertainment and the tournament is surrounded by controversy after controversy.

In this context, he referred to the alleged molestation of an American citizen of Indian origin by Australian player Luke Pomersbach, who plays for Royal Challengers Bangalore, at a five-star hotel last night.

A BJP member threatening to go on a hunger strike from Sunday if no action was taken.

Amid chants of 'shame shame' by some other members, Azad said prior to this incident, there were allegations of spot-fixing involving five players of IPL and a scuffle involving a top actor who was said to be "drunk".

"It (IPL) reduced cricket to dance and drama. It looks like BCCI and IPL are above laws of the land... We keep writing letters but there is no action," he said, demanding a high level inquiry into the affairs of IPL.

Noting that he had raised the issue of wrongdoings involving IPL earlier also without any action, the BJP member said his "voice is not heard" and that he would undertake fast-unto-death at Ferozeshah Kotla ground here from Sunday if no action was taken on his plea.

JD-U leader Sharad Yadav joined him, saying he had raised a serious issue and government should pay attention.

He also alleged that IPL was just "drama" and it was spoiling India's culture.

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