Rajasthan Royals’ Riyan Parag Caught Vaping on Live Broadcast, Faces Potential BCCI Sanctions
Rajasthan Royals top-order batsman Riyan Parag was recorded vaping inside the team dressing room during a live broadcast of their Indian Premier League match against Punjab Kings. The incident occurred during the 16th over of the run chase, showing Parag using an electronic cigarette in the direct presence of teammates Dhruv Jurel and Yashasvi Jaiswal.
Violation of BCCI Regulations and Indian Law
Smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited in all stadium premises and player dressing rooms under Board of Control for Cricket in India match playing conditions. Beyond sports protocols, the use and possession of e-cigarettes violate Indian federal law. The Indian government enacted The Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA) in 2019, which completely bans the production, manufacture, import, export, transport, sale, distribution, storage, and advertisement of all vaping devices.
Unlike conventional cigarettes, vaping devices lack ingredient transparency and standard safety guidelines in India due to their illegal status. The franchise management and team captain Sanju Samson will likely be required to explain the security lapse to tournament officials, as the BCCI enforces strict policies regarding unregulated substances in player areas.
- BCCI Security Protocol: Prohibits unauthorized items and activities in restricted Player and Match Officials Areas (PMOA).
- PECA 2019 Violation: Mandates strict penalties, including fines and potential imprisonment, for e-cigarette possession and use in India.
Pattern of Protocol Breaches
This incident adds to existing disciplinary issues for the Rajasthan Royals franchise during the current season. Earlier in the tournament, team manager Romi Bhinder violated the PMOA protocol by using a mobile phone in the dugout. Following an investigation, the BCCI issued a formal warning and a fine to Bhinder.
Recent Rajasthan Royals Infractions
| Personnel | Role | Infraction | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Riyan Parag | Player | Caught vaping in dressing room on live broadcast | Pending BCCI investigation |
| Romi Bhinder | Team Manager | Unauthorized mobile phone use in the dugout | Fined and formally warned by BCCI |
Official communication regarding disciplinary action against Parag remains pending. BCCI Joint Secretary Devajit Saikia has yet to release a public statement regarding potential sanctions. The cricket administration and fans await the governing body’s ruling on this direct broadcast violation.