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[Saba Sports News] The Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) recently came under heavy criticism for allegedly ignoring complaints of sexual assault and bullying against girls’ cricket coach Manu M since 2018. He was arrested by the Thiruvananthapuram police, and the incident was discussed in the Kerala Legislative Assembly.
Recent revelations uncovered multiple POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) cases filed against the coach. Under scrutiny, KCA President Jayesh George admitted the association’s mishandling of the issue and assured support for the victims. He announced that Manu’s coaching certification would be canceled and directed cricket associations across India to deny him coaching opportunities.
“The Association stands firmly with the victims and does not support Manu. KCA made mistakes in handling the issue, which we admit. We are not justifying Manu’s actions. His coaching certification will be canceled. KCA will now require a police clearance certificate for new coaches,” George told Female Cricket.
George claimed the association never shielded the coach and that the complaint only surfaced in June. KCA plans to organize counseling sessions for the girls coached by Manu, supported by the Child Rights Commission. Additionally, a Grievance Redressal Cell for Women will be established, and it will be mandatory for one parent of the trainees to be present during training sessions.
For context, Manu had been working at the district cricket academy in Thiruvananthapuram. Following his arrest, five more girls came forward with similar allegations.