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Harbhajan Singh, the former Indian cricketer, has publicly apologized following criticism from disability rights groups. The controversy arose after a video featuring Harbhajan Singh, along with Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina, and Gurkeerat Singh Mann, showed them limping to depict the physical strain of their matches.
This portrayal led to accusations from the National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP) that the cricketers were mocking individuals with disabilities.
In response to the backlash, Harbhajan Singh addressed the issue on social media, providing context to the video and expressing regret for any offense caused. He clarified that their intention was not to disrespect or hurt anyone’s feelings.
“Just wanted to clear to our people who are complaining about our recent videos of Tauba Tauba on social media after winning the championship here in England. We didn’t want to hurt anyone’s sentiments. We respect every individual and community. And this video was just to reflect to our bodies after playing continues cricket for 15 days. SORE bodies.. we r not trying to insult or offend anyone.. still if people think we hv done something wrong ..All I can say from my side. SORRY to everyone .. plz let’s stop this here and move forward. Stay happy and healthy. Love to all. Regards,” Harbhajan said.
The NRPD condemned the cricketers’ act, calling the social media pots ‘totally disgraceful’.
“No words are sufficient enough to condemn such behaviour specially when displayed by people considered national heroes. Such degrading actions only exposes their total insensitivity and boorishness,” the NPRD said.
According to NDTV, a complaint has been filed against Sandhya Devanathan, Vice President and Managing Director of Meta India.
“This video is a blatant violation of Article 21 of the Constitution of India, which guarantees every person the right to life with dignity. It also breaches Section 92 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and contravenes the Supreme Court’s guidelines established in the case of Nipun Malhotra v. Sony Pictures Films India Private Limited (2004 SCC Online SC 1639),” disability activist Arman Ali said in the complaint.
