IPL: Will BCCI take action over Riyan Parag's vaping incident?
What's the story
Riyan Parag, the Rajasthan Royals captain, was caught on camera vaping during their match against Punjab Kings in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). The incident, which took place in the team's dressing room, has drawn widespread criticism on social media and could result in an action from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Here are further details.
Legal implications
Legal implications of Parag's act
The act of vaping is against the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA) 2019, which prohibits the production, sale, and distribution of e-cigarettes in India. The law prescribes a punishment of up to one year in prison and/or a fine of up to ₹1 lakh for first-time offenders. Parag's act could thus have legal ramifications beyond just disciplinary action from the BCCI.
Possible repercussions
BCCI to take action against Parag
As reported by The Indian Express, the BCCI will seek an explanation from Parag for his careless act in front of the cameras. According to an IPL source, "A lot of players consume e-cigarettes but they don't do it in the dressing room. It is too risky and careless to be doing that with so many cameras around." However, no official from the Royals has commented on the matter yet.
Past incidents
Rajasthan Royals' season of controversies
This isn't the first time Rajasthan Royals have faced a controversy this season. Earlier, team manager Romi Bhinder was fined ₹1 lakh for violating PMOA protocol after he was caught using his phone in the dugout. The latest incident of Parag vaping in the dressing room has further raised questions about player conduct and adherence to rules within IPL teams.
Privacy issues
Privacy concerns in IPL
According to PTI, the issue of players' privacy in the dressing room was also raised at the IPL Captains Meeting ahead of IPL 2026. Some captains objected to cameras showing the dressing room during live broadcasts. However, they were told that it was up to broadcasters and not the BCCI to decide on such matters. After Parag's incident, this policy may be reviewed further.