Riyan Parag, the captain of Rajasthan Royals, is at the center of a brewing controversy after visuals emerged of him using a vape-like device in the team's dressing room during an IPL match. The incident, which occurred during the Royals' clash against Punjab Kings at the Mullanpur Cricket Stadium on April 28, has quickly gone viral, sparking widespread debate on social media about discipline among young cricketers and the legality of such devices under Indian law.
Now, a women's advocacy group has stepped in, demanding a formal inquiry into the matter. Mothers Against Vaping, a collective of mothers campaigning against the promotion of new-age nicotine devices like vapes and e-cigarettes, has raised serious concerns. The group points to the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019, which bans the production, manufacture, import, export, transport, sale, distribution, storage, and advertisement of electronic cigarettes in India. They argue that vaping indoors is not a "grey zone," as some reports have suggested, but a clear violation of the law.
Citing the Union Health Ministry's stance, the group emphasized that possession of e-cigarettes in any form is illegal. "The law clearly specifies that violation can attract imprisonment of up to six months or a fine of up to Rs 50,000, or both," they stated. For repeat offenses, penalties can escalate to one year in prison or a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh. "In India, the law must stand above all else. Whether one is a celebrity or a common citizen, the same rules must apply," the group added in their statement.
For sports fans and apparel enthusiasts alike, this incident serves as a reminder of the scrutiny athletes face both on and off the field. As the IPL season heats up, the focus remains on the game—but moments like these highlight the importance of role models setting the right example for young viewers. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
