Lalit Modi Slams BCCI After RR Manager Escapes With Only ₹1 Lakh Fine For Using Phone

The foundational figure of the Indian Premier League (IPL), Lalit Modi, has launched a blistering attack on the BCCI and the IPL Governing Council for what he deems “lenient” disciplinary action.

The outburst follows a recent controversy involving Rajasthan Royals (RR) manager Romi Bhinder, who was caught on camera using a mobile phone in the team dugout during a high-stakes match against RCB. Despite a formal investigation by the Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU), Bhinder was cleared of match-fixing charges but was slapped with a ₹1 lakh fine and a stern warning for violating Player and Match Officials Area (PMOA) protocols.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, April 17, 2026, Modi demanded a more aggressive stance, asserting that “zero tolerance is the only mantra” that can protect the league’s integrity. “Why fine only? Should be banned,” Modi posted, accusing the current administration of being overly protective and failing to send a clear message to all stakeholders. His comments have reignited the debate over the strictness of security measures in the dugout, especially as Bhinder was seen using the device in the presence of young sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.

Reports indicate that Bhinder’s defense cited ongoing health issues, including difficulty walking long distances, which allegedly led to the logistical lapse. While the ACU acknowledged his medical condition, they found his formal response to the show-cause notice “unsatisfactory,” leading to the financial penalty.

Under standard PMOA guidelines, the use of electronic communication equipment is strictly prohibited in the dugout to prevent any unauthorized flow of information, even if a manager is technically authorized to possess a device for administrative duties elsewhere.