Former India player, who once played under Rahul Dravid, arrested in Kolkata with Molestation Charges; Public handed him over to Police

Former Bengal women’s cricket coach Jayanta Ghosh Dastidar was arrested in Kolkata on Thursday, August 6, following allegations of making an offensive and sexual gesture towards a woman before allegedly molesting her inside a crowded Metro train.

According to the complaint, the incident took place when the accused allegedly made an inappropriate gesture towards the woman. He then allegedly behaved inappropriately with her physically, prompting the woman to protest. Several fellow passengers reportedly witnessed the incident and came to her support.

The commuters subsequently confronted Jayanta and handed him over to the police. The former Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) age-group women’s team coach was arrested and produced before a court. The judiciary subsequently sent him to jail custody until August 17.

Jayanta’s arrest has also brought renewed attention to an earlier allegation against him during his coaching tenure. A female physiotherapist had previously accused the former coach of assault and molestation and had reportedly complained to the CAB.

Although no police complaint was filed in that case, the Bengal cricket body took the allegations seriously and formed a special investigation team to look into the matter. Following the inquiry, Jayanta was suspended from his coaching responsibilities.

Jayanta played for India U19, his captain was Rahul Dravid

The accused also played for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy and represented his state thrice. A pacer back in his days, he also featured in India U19 team; incidentally, Rahul Dravid was the captain during his playing days.

The latest incident has once again raised concerns about the conduct and safety of women in public. Jayanta has previously coached the likes of Richa Ghosh, Jhulan Goswami during his Bengal days. He coached the U23 and senior women’s teams for Bengal in the same season and made both the teams champions in a domestic season. Despite his budding and impressive coaching career, the former India youth international finds himself in hot waters.

While the coach remains in jail, his lawyer has denied all charges and has claimed foul play against his client.