Indian cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues has had her honorary membership at Mumbai’s prestigious Khar Gymkhana revoked following allegations against her father, Ivan Rodrigues, regarding religious activities on club premises. The decision, made during a general body meeting on October 20, 2024, became public on October 22.
- Membership Background: Jemimah, the first female cricketer to be granted a three-year honorary membership at Khar Gymkhana, joined the club in March 2023.
- Allegations Against Ivan Rodrigues: Her father allegedly organized around 35 events at the club’s Presidential Hall over the past 18 months, associated with the evangelical group Brother Manuel Ministries. These events reportedly included religious conversions, violating the club’s strict prohibition on religious activities.
- Club’s Response: Following complaints from members and scrutiny from local political figures, the gymkhana revoked Jemimah’s membership. Club officials emphasized that Ivan Rodrigues’ misuse of facilities, often booked at discounted rates, violated club policies. Shiv Malhotra, a member of the managing committee, highlighted that his actions limited other members’ access to the hall.
Khar Gymkhana’s president defended the decision, stating it was necessary to uphold the club’s constitution. As of now, neither Jemimah Rodrigues nor her family have issued a public statement on the matter.
