IPL founder Lalit Modi has criticized the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the IPL Governing Council for only fining Rajasthan Royals team manager Romi Bhinder for breaking protocol, saying a stricter punishment is needed.
Modi challenged the decision after BCCI fined Bhinder Rs 1 million for using a cell phone in the dugout, a violation of the Players and Umpires Area (PMOA) rules.
“Why just a fine. It should be banned – zero tolerance is the only mantra. This shows BCCI board and ipl are not ready to be a zero tolerance administration. They are always protecting someone or something. Lock him up guys. Only way to get the message across,” Modi wrote on X.
The incident took place during an IPL match between Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Guwahati on April 10.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that Bhinder was fined and cautioned after the Sharad Kumar-led anti-corruption unit reviewed his show-cause notice response.
“A team led by Sharad Kumar examined Bhinder’s reply and found him guilty. His response to the notice was unsatisfactory.”
“He was found guilty of violating the protocol. Since this is a first offence, a fine of one million was imposed and a warning was issued,” Saikia said.
The IPL also said that Bhinder had accepted the invalidity.
“Mr Bhinder has acknowledged that an offense has been committed and has apologized unreservedly,” the statement said.
Bhinder was seen using his smartphone in the underground floor during the match with young player Vaibhav Sooryavanshi sitting next to him. According to reports, Bhinder has been dealing with health issues and has difficulty walking long distances and climbing stairs.
“Using a phone in the dugout is a strict no no and being a part of the IPL for a long time, I am sure Bhinder was aware of it. It could have happened unintentionally as well but the BCCI has dealt with the issue properly,” a source was quoted as saying by PTI.
In accordance with PMOA rules, the use of mobile phones and communication devices is not permitted. They are only allowed in the dressing room under special conditions. Players and support staff are required to deposit their devices with the Team Security Liaison Officer upon arrival.
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Issued by:
Saurabh Kumar
Published on:
17 Apr 2026 22:38 IST
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