Khar Gymkhana Revokes Jemimah Rodrigues' Membership Amid Religious Allegations

Indian cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues has found herself embroiled in controversy following the cancellation of her honorary three-year membership at Khar Gymkhana, one of Mumbai's oldest clubs. On October 20, club members voted to revoke her membership, alleging that her father, Ivan Rodrigues, engaged in religious activities and attempted to convert others on the club's premises. Shiv Malhotra, a committee member, stated, “We are proud of her and she brings laurels for the country, but her father held nearly 35 meetings at the club in a hall that remained booked for over a year.” The meetings were reportedly organized by Brother Manuel Ministries, which violated Rule 4A of the club's constitution, prohibiting religious activities. Malhotra further claimed, “Her father misused the privilege,” stressing that the gymkhana typically offers sports memberships and has prominent athletes like PV Sindhu and Leander Paes associated with it. Club president Vivek Devnani confirmed the cancellation but dismissed allegations of preferential treatment for Jemimah, suggesting that the accusations stem from political motives ahead of the club's upcoming elections. Jemimah's family has yet to respond to the allegations, but the controversy highlights the intersection of sports, community values, and religious activities.