Jemimah Rodrigues’ Membership Revoked Amid Father’s Controversy
Jemimah Rodrigues, the star batter of India Women’s cricket and a prominent figure in Mumbai’s cricket scene has faced an unexpected setback. In 2023, she was honoured with a prestigious three-year honorary membership at the Khar Gymkhana, recognizing her contributions to the sport. However, recent allegations against her father, Ivan Rodrigues, have led to the cancellation of her membership, casting a shadow over her achievements.
Ivan Rodrigues has been accused of engaging in unauthorized religious activities within the club premises. Reports from The Indian Express indicate that several club members voiced their concerns regarding his actions during the Khar Gymkhana’s annual general meeting on October 20, 2024. As a result, the club’s management decided to revoke Jemimah’s membership based on her father’s alleged misconduct.
Vivek Devnani, the president of Khar Gymkhana, affirmed the choice, saying, “The honorary three-year membership granted to Ms.Jemimah Rodrigues was revoked under a resolution passed by the members who attended the general meeting.” This decision highlights the club’s strict policies regarding activities permitted on its premises.
Allegations Against Ivan Rodrigues Lead to Membership Cancellation
The controversy surrounding Ivan Rodrigues is significant, as he is reported to have conducted 35 events in the club’s presidential hall over the past year and a half. These events are linked to his involvement with an organization known as Brother Manuel Ministries, which has raised eyebrows among club members. Shiv Malhotra, a member of the managing committee, expressed concerns about the nature of these events, emphasizing the club’s firm stance against religious activities.
Malhotra elaborated on the situation, stating, “We came to know that Jemimah Rodrigues’ father was attached to an organization called Brother Manuel Ministries. They hosted 35 events and reserved the presidential hall for over a year and a half. We all know what was happening there.” His comments underscore the club’s commitment to maintaining a secular environment, free from religious influence.
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The allegations have stirred significant concern among members, with Malhotra noting the extravagant nature of the events, which reportedly included dancing and expensive music equipment. “As per Khar Gymkhana’s bylaws, Rule 4A of the constitution, the Gymkhana does not permit any religious activity,” he emphasized. This incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between personal conduct and organizational values in sports and community institutions.
