Indian MP angry over condom advertisement during cricket match

Trinamool Congress MP and former cricketer Kirti Azad has objected to the airing of condom advertisements during the India-England international T20 match. He has called on the Indian Cricket Board to investigate the matter, calling it inappropriate to air such advertisements while children and teenagers are watching the game with their families.

Kirti Azad, a member of India's 1983 World Cup-winning team, expressed her anger over the issue in a post on social media X on Saturday (July 4). She alleged that a large number of children and teenagers were enjoying the match held at Old Trafford in Manchester with their family members. At that time, an advertisement for a condom brand was aired during the break in the match.

Describing the advertisement as an adult-friendly campaign, Kirti Azad said that it is unacceptable to air such advertisements during a popular sports event watched by families. She also commented that it is necessary to investigate how the matter was approved.

In his statement to news agency IANS, he also brought up the issue of restrictions on tobacco and alcohol advertisements in India. According to him, cricket is not just a game in India; it is associated with the emotions of crores of people in the country. Children, teenagers and other family members sit together and enjoy the match.

Kirti Azad claimed that about 440 million viewers were connected to the broadcast of the respective match. He believes that many families may find themselves in an uncomfortable situation due to the same advertisement being shown multiple times in the interval between two overs.

The Trinamool Congress MP said that many viewers under the age of 16 watch cricket matches with their parents. At that time, such advertisements can create various questions in their minds. Therefore, he opined that more caution is needed in selecting advertisements in programs where a large number of children and teenagers watch.

Kirti Azad also questioned the role of the Board of Control for Cricket in India in this incident. He said that if there are strict restrictions on alcohol and cigarette advertising, then how condom advertisements are allowed to be broadcast during the break in the match should also be clarified.

The former cricketer also said that if there is no quick explanation or effective action on the issue, he will raise a question in the Indian Parliament. However, no official statement has been received from the Board of Control for Cricket in India or the concerned television and digital broadcasting platform on this so far.

Meanwhile, hosts England defeated India by 4 wickets in the second T20I of the series held at Old Trafford in Manchester. The target of 191 runs set by India was crossed in 19 overs. Jacob Bethell played a key role in the team's victory by playing an unbeaten 76 runs off 46 balls. With this victory, England took a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.