Punjab Kings cricketer Shashank Singh has publicly addressed the allegations of assault and wrongful confinement made by his former domestic cook, Vipendra Singh Tomar. An FIR was registered against Shashank, his father Shailesh Singh, and their driver in Bhopal following Tomar’s complaint. Shashank has denied the accusations, stating that his family did not hold Tomar hostage or assault him.
According to Tomar, a resident of Rewa district in Madhya Pradesh, he began working as a cook at the Singh family’s residence in Neelbad on June 25. He claimed he was promised a monthly salary of Rs 15,000, along with food and accommodation. Tomar alleged that he was later told there were shortcomings in his work and that his mobile phone was confiscated. The situation reportedly escalated on June 28 when he requested his phone back after preparing breakfast, a request which was refused.
Tomar’s complaint states that Shailesh Singh, Shashank Singh, and their driver then entered his room, verbally abused him, and assaulted him with their hands and fists before forcing him out of the house. He also alleged that Rs 1,000 was transferred from his mobile phone, with the accused claiming it was for food and accommodation expenses.
Shashank Singh’s Counter-Allegations
In response to these claims, Shashank Singh stated that Tomar was not a competent cook and that he suspected Tomar’s intentions were to steal from the house. Shashank mentioned that Tomar was taking videos and photos inside the family’s home, including private areas like his room. He clarified that his mother had asked Tomar to delete these videos and photos because they were private.
Shashank further claimed that he had minimal interaction with Tomar, mainly discussing his cooking background. He noted that Tomar had been recommended by an acquaintance of his father and had requested an advance payment shortly after arriving. Shashank’s family had suggested Tomar work for a few days before discussing compensation and deciding on the arrangement.
The cricketer also questioned the timeline of events, stating, “A person who comes on the evening of the 25th and leaves on the morning of the 28th – how can you call that keeping someone hostage?” He reiterated that he did not assault Tomar, asserting that physical altercation is not in his nature and that he even hesitates to use abusive language.
Police Investigation Underway
The Ratibad police in Bhopal have registered a case under Sections 296(B), 115(2), and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Police have initiated an investigation into the allegations. Tomar underwent a medical examination, which reportedly found visible injuries.
According to Tomar, he decided to quit his job after observing what he described as an abusive work environment. He claimed his phone was confiscated, and he was pressured to continue working. He further alleged that after he locked himself in a room for safety, the accused entered and assaulted him. Shashank, however, stated that the police have not contacted him regarding the matter and that his sister had considered calling the police themselves when they found Tomar taking photos and videos, but they let him go after he pleaded.
The matter remains under police investigation.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
