KCA clarifies position on coach Manu's POCSO case, announces new safety measures

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The officials of the Kerala Cricket Association informed in a press conference that they did not try to protect the coach Manu who was arrested in POCSO case and they are cooperating with the investigation. At the same time, KCA President Jayesh George and Secretary Vinod S Kumar said that they regretted the failure to detect the problems faced by children in a timely manner and that they are not ready to compromise on the safety of the girls.

The allegation of hoarding the complaint received against Manu is being made by some to destroy KCA. In 2012, Manu became a coach in Thiruvananthapuram District Association. The association was suspended in 2022 when the allegations first surfaced. But the children who were training under Manu and their parents came forward for him. They gave a statement in favour of Manu to the police. He was allowed to continue when the court granted bail. The court had acquitted Manu in this case.

In April this year, when a parent complained against Manu that he was not training well, Manu tendered his resignation. But the association asked to complete the notice period. The pink tournament was to be held within that period. At that time there was no sexual accusation case against Manu. The complaint regarding the arrest was received in June. Therefore, the officials clarified that the allegation that Manu was protected by KCA after the 2022 case and complaint is false.

Grievance Redressal Committee will be formed

• KCA has said that an internal grievance redressal committee consisting of women will be formed to investigate and take action in case of complaints against coaches and staff.

• With the help of 'DILSE', an organization working to prevent violence against children, the necessary training and counseling for children has been initiated.

• Children trained under Manu will be given special counselling with the help of the Child Rights Commission.

• Other cricket associations have been told not to appoint Manu as coach. It also recommended cancellation of Manu's coaching certification from the National Cricket Academy.
• Police clearance certificate has been made mandatory while hiring coaches and staff including in district associations.
• More surveillance cameras have been installed at the training ground and the services of security personnel have been streamlined.