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👉 Check Today's Deals on Amazon IndiaIPL 2026 Controversy: Romi Bhinder’s Protocol Violation
BCCI’s Response to the Incident
BCCI secretary **Devajit Saikia** stated that they will conduct a thorough examination of the incident before making any conclusions. “Certain individuals are allowed to carry phones in the dugout, and as a manager, Romi Bhinder can carry one. However, we need to investigate where the event occurred and whether the phone was actively used,” Saikia told *TimesofIndia.com*.
Understanding the PMOA Protocol Violation
When reminded that the PMOA Code explicitly prohibits phone usage in the dugout, which is classified as part of the PMOA area, Saikia assured that a comprehensive evaluation will take place. “We will analyze the pictures, video clips, and all available evidence before reaching a conclusion,” he added.
Implications for Rajasthan Royals
As of now, the issue has not been presented to the **IPL Governing Council (GC)**. The significant question remains whether Bhinder will be able to participate in the dugout during Rajasthan Royals’ upcoming away game against **Sunrisers Hyderabad** on Monday. Adding to the seriousness of the situation, during Bhinder’s phone use, **Vaibhav Sooryavanshi** was seen glancing at the screen, an act that was broadcasted live and has caused considerable controversy.
Calls for Immediate Action
Former IPL chairman **Lalit Modi** has called for urgent action from the GC, expressing concerns regarding the role of the **Anti-Corruption Unit** as Bhinder casually used his phone during the match. “Having a MOBILE PHONE IN THE DUGOUT – is a COMPLETELY A NO NO. If this really occurred, then the IPL governing council needs to take IMMEDIATE ACTION,” Modi tweeted.
Next Steps: Protocols and Investigations
According to standard protocol, a match referee is obligated to submit a detailed report at the end of each match. It remains to be seen if the Bhinder incident will be included in this report. The match featured **Vengalil Narayanan Kutty** as the officiating referee, along with two anti-corruption officers monitoring the event.
In just over 24 hours, RR will be back in action, and the BCCI must conduct a thorough investigation before allowing Bhinder to participate in the PMOA again.
Potential Consequences of the Violation
The **BCCI Anti-Corruption Code**, effective from March 18, 2019, also applies to team officials. “The BCCI needs to investigate this matter diligently. The communication device should be seized and examined. This is a serious violation and cannot be overlooked. Even the players sitting near him need to be questioned and cautioned about the act. As for sanctions, the match referee and ACU wing will decide, and penalties could range from fines to match bans or more severe actions,” explained a source tracking the developments.
The BCCI has a limited time frame to clarify this serious incident and take appropriate steps.
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