News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/16th July 2024
A police complaint has been filed against former Indian cricketers Harbhajan Singh, Suresh Raina, Yuvraj Singh, and Gurkeerat Mann for allegedly mocking individuals with disabilities in a video posted on Instagram. The controversy erupted after the video, which followed India Champions’ victory over Pakistan Champions in the World Championship of Legends final, drew widespread criticism for its content.
Harbhajan Singh responded to the backlash by issuing a statement on social media platform ‘X’, clarifying that there was no intent to offend anyone. He expressed regret if the video hurt anyone’s sentiments and emphasized respect for all individuals and communities.
The complaint was lodged by Arman Ali, executive director of the National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP), with the Station House Officer (SHO) of the Amar Colony police station, as reported by PTI. The complaint also names Sandhya Devanathan, the vice president and managing director of Meta India, in addition to the cricketers.
According to the complaint, Instagram, owned by Meta, breached the Information Technology Act, 2000, by allowing the posting of such content. A police officer confirmed receipt of the complaint and stated it would be forwarded to the district’s cyber cell for further investigation.
The controversial video showed Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, and Suresh Raina mimicking the physical toll of the tournament by limping and holding their backs. The caption read, “Body ki Tauba Tauba ho Gayi in 15 days legends cricket… Every part of the body is sore. Straight competition to our brothers @vickykaushal09 @karanaujla our version of Tauba Tauba dance. What a SONG.”
Disability activists condemned the video as being in poor taste. The National Platform for the Rights of the Disabled called it “totally disgraceful.” The complaint alleges that Instagram failed to adhere to its user guidelines, allowing derogatory content to be shared.
Arman Ali stated in the complaint that the video violates Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees the right to life with dignity. It also breaches Section 92 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and contravenes the Supreme Court’s guidelines established in Nipun Malhotra v. Sony Pictures Films India Private Limited (2004 SCC Online SC 1639).
Ali urged authorities to take immediate action against those involved, stressing the importance of holding public figures accountable, especially when their actions undermine the dignity of vulnerable communities. Speaking to PTI, Ali asserted that an apology from the cricketers would not suffice; he insisted they must be penalized for their actions.
In his post on ‘X’, Harbhajan Singh clarified, “We didn’t want to hurt anyone’s sentiments. We respect every individual and community and this video was just to reflect our sore bodies after playing continuous cricket for 15 days. We are not trying to insult or offend anyone… still if people think we have done something wrong, all I can say from my side is SORRY to everyone… please let’s stop this here and move forward. Stay happy and healthy.”
The incident has sparked a debate about the responsibilities of public figures and the need for sensitivity in the content they share, especially on social media platforms.
