Fans on social media were quick to react after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Indian Premier League (IPL) Governing Council announced their verdict on Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag.
Parag, 24, was caught on camera using an e-cigarette in the dressing room during Rajasthan Royals’ game against Punjab Kings on Tuesday, 28 April. Footage of the incident has since gone viral on social media.
As a result, Parag was reprimanded by officials, with the IPL confirming that he had been fined 20 per cent of his match fee.
The IPL’s statement read: “Riyan was found to have breached Article 2.21 of the IPL Code of Conduct, which relates to conduct that brings the game into disrepute.
“Riyan admitted to the offence and accepted the sanction imposed by the Match Referee, Amit Sharma,” the statement added.
The BCCI is also exploring further action against the team, its officials and the player involved in an effort to ensure the reputation of the IPL remains intact.
WAS RIYAN PARAG LET OFF LIGHTLY?
Fans on social media were quick to voice their opinions following the announcement. Many felt Parag should have faced stricter punishment, given that e-cigarettes are banned in India.
Several argued that Parag’s status as a cricketer may have worked in his favour, with some suggesting an ordinary citizen would have faced harsher consequences in similar circumstances.
Questions were also raised over the nature of the penalty. Fans pointed out that players are often fined or suspended for matters such as celebrations or slow over-rates, and argued that Parag’s offence warranted stronger punishment given the circumstances.
WHAT DOES THE LAW SAY ABOUT VAPING?
Under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes (Production, Manufacture, Import, Export, Transport, Sale, Distribution, Storage and Advertisement) Ordinance, 2019, the following provisions apply:
- The production, manufacture, import, export, transport, sale (including online sale), distribution or advertisement (including online advertisement) of e-cigarettes is a cognisable offence in India.
- A first offence is punishable by imprisonment of up to one year, a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh, or both.
- A repeat offence carries a punishment of up to three years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to Rs 5 lakh, or both.
- Those found storing e-cigarettes can face imprisonment of up to six months, a fine of up to Rs 50,000, or both.
IS THE BCCI LETTING RIYAN PARAG OFF?
In the statement issued by the IPL Governing Council, it was also noted that the BCCI is considering further penalties against Rajasthan Royals to ensure such incidents do not recur.
“The BCCI is also exploring other options to initiate proceedings for stringent action against the erring team, its officials and player/s to ensure that the reputation of IPL remains intact,” the statement said.
Parag is expected to lead Rajasthan Royals in their next game against Delhi Capitals in Jaipur on Friday, 1 May.
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