Cricketer Riyan Parag Under Fire: Women's Group Demands Inquiry into Vaping Incident

Call for Investigation into Vaping Allegations

New Delhi: A women's advocacy group has called for an investigation into footage allegedly showing cricketer Riyan Parag using a vape-like device during an IPL match, raising concerns about the normalization of prohibited products.

Mothers Against Vaping, a coalition of mothers opposing the promotion of modern nicotine devices like vapes and e-cigarettes, is demanding a comprehensive inquiry into the matter.

The incident reportedly occurred on April 28 during a game between Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings, with the video appearing to show the 24-year-old vaping in the dressing room.

While officials from the BCCI have requested an explanation from the team's captain, the group expressed disappointment over the absence of any formal notice against Parag thus far.

Referencing the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019, the group emphasized that electronic cigarettes are illegal in India, covering all aspects from production to advertisement.

They dismissed claims suggesting that vaping indoors exists in a 'grey zone', labeling such statements as 'misinformation'.

The group highlighted that the Union Health Ministry has clarified that possessing e-cigarettes in any form violates the law, which can lead to imprisonment for up to six months or fines reaching Rs 50,000, with harsher penalties for repeat offenses.

According to the spokesperson, the law must apply equally to everyone, regardless of their celebrity status, and public figures should not undermine regulations designed to protect public health.

The group also referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi's comments during the 2019 ban, where he warned against e-cigarettes being marketed as fashionable and labeled them as a 'new form of intoxication'.

They expressed concern that the presence of a vape-like device associated with a prominent cricketer on national television could convey a misleading message to millions of young viewers.

The women's group is urging an investigation to determine if the incident was a 'deliberate act of defiance, a careless mistake, or a calculated publicity stunt for a banned product'.

While they commend the BCCI for acknowledging the issue, they are calling for a strict zero-tolerance policy to ensure accountability.

The statement noted a troubling trend where multinational tobacco companies are eager to keep vapes in public discourse and normalize these devices in India despite the existing ban. They questioned whether Riyan Parag acted independently or if this controversy inadvertently served as promotion for banned substances.

The collective stated that if Parag had no malicious intent, he should clarify his stance and cooperate with any investigation, emphasizing that no celebrity should expect different standards than those applied to ordinary citizens.

They further asserted that Indian cricket cannot afford to normalize a banned product in front of young audiences.

The board is urged to establish the facts, enforce accountability, and prioritize the law and the health of India's youth.

The group reiterated that vaping is not a harmless choice, warning that such products could lead adolescents to more dangerous substances, making strict enforcement and responsible public behavior crucial.

They concluded by stating, 'Our children do not just watch celebrities; they emulate them. This issue must be treated with the seriousness it deserves, not brushed off as a fleeting mistake.'