'They Were In No Way Conversion Meetings': Jemimah' Father Issues Statement After Gymkhana Fiasco

Ivan Rodrigues, father of Indian women's cricket team batter Jemimah Rodrigues, has issued a statement denying allegations that he used his daughter's membership at Khar Gymkhana to hold "conversion meetings" on the premises. The gymkhana had revoked Jemimah's membership due to complaints from members that Ivan misused the privileges granted to her.

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Jemimah Rodrigues' father clears the air after Gymkhana controversy

Ivan clarified that he conducted prayer gatherings, which were open to all and not "conversion meetings" as alleged. He stated that these gatherings were held in accordance with the Gymkhana's procedures and with the knowledge of the office-bearers. He also mentioned that when asked to stop the prayer meetings, he respected the Gymkhana's stance and did so immediately.

Ivan expressed disappointment at the false claims and misinformation, stating that his family is honest and law-abiding. He emphasized that they have always wished the best for everyone and will continue to do so.

"We had availed of the facilities at the Khar Gymkhana for the purpose of prayer meetings on multiple occasions, over a period of a year since April 2023. However, this was done in complete accordance with the procedures that Khar Gymkhana have in place, and in full knowledge of the office-bearers," Ivan said in a statement.

"The prayer meetings were open to all and were in no way 'conversion meetings' as is wrongly labelled in articles in the media," he said in a social media post.

He also said that "when we were told to stop conducting the prayer meetings, we respected the stance of the Gymkhana and did so with immediate effect." 

"When informed about the difference in rates for members and guests, we readily cleared the arrears. We are honest, law-abiding people who are grateful that we can practise our faith without it being a cause of inconvenience to anyone else.

"To then be the subject of false claims and misinformation is disheartening. We have and continue to wish only the best for everyone," he stated.

The 24-year-old Jemimah is one of the stars of the Indian women's team.

She has played in three Tests, scoring 235 runs, and has also featured in 31 ODIs and 104 T20Is since making her India debut in 2018.

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Earlier, while talking to PTI, Khar Gymkhana's managing committee member Shiv Malhotra said that while he has respect for Jemimah's sporting stature, the incidents involving her father should not have happened.

"This was totally not required. But I mean, this is the way the world works. Let me place this on record that we are very proud of her as an Indian cricketer and I wish her good luck for the future and may she win more accolades for the country," Malhotra said.

"She should know that the Gymkhana membership was given to her as a privilege to her to enjoy the cricketing facilities and not for her father to use," he added. 

(With PTI inputs)