Rising star Jemimah Rodrigues' honorary membership at Mumbai's prestigious Khar Gymkhana has been cancelled due to her father's alleged unauthorised religious activities on the club premises. The club, known for its strict policies regarding religion, took the decision to revoke Rodrigues' membership during its annual general body meeting. This comes as a major shock to the Indian women's cricket team's star batter, who had been granted the honorary membership in 2023.
Khar Gymkhana Revokes Jemimah Rodrigues' Membership Amidst Religious Controversy
In a surprising turn of events, the Mumbai-based Khar Gymkhana has revoked the honorary membership granted to Indian women's cricket star Jemimah Rodrigues. The decision stems from allegations that her father, Ivan Rodrigues, had been conducting unauthorized religious activities on the club premises.
Background:
Khar Gymkhana, established in 1933, is known for its adherence to strict policies regarding religion and politics. Its membership is primarily comprised of prominent individuals from Mumbai's elite. Jemimah Rodrigues was granted honorary membership in 2023 as a recognition of her outstanding achievements in cricket.
Allegations and Club Action:
According to sources, Ivan Rodrigues had allegedly been organizing religious prayer sessions on the gymkhana's grounds without the club's permission. The club leadership viewed this as a violation of its policies and decided to revoke Jemimah Rodrigues' membership.
During the club's annual general body meeting, a resolution to cancel her membership was passed. The decision was taken after considering the alleged religious activities and the club's commitment to maintaining its secular character.
Reaction and Impact:
Jemimah Rodrigues has reportedly expressed disappointment over the club's decision. However, she has stated that she respects the gymkhana's policies and wishes to continue focusing on her cricket career. The controversy has sparked discussion about the boundaries between religion and public spaces.
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