Former Cricket Star Jhulan Goswami Summoned Under SIR 2.0 Scheme
In a development that has sparked political controversy, former Indian women's cricket team fast bowler Jhulan Goswami has been summoned for a hearing related to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR 2.0) scheme. The hearing, scheduled for late January 2026, has drawn sharp criticism from the Trinamool Congress (TMC), which has accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of unfairly targeting a celebrated national icon.
Political Backlash Over the Summons
The TMC took to social media platform X to express its outrage, highlighting what it perceives as a stark contradiction in the treatment of Goswami. In a pointed post, the party recalled that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had publicly praised Goswami in 2017, referring to her as "India's pride" for her contributions to cricket. The TMC's statement emphasized, "The same icon is now being dragged to prove whether she is even Indian over a petty discrepancy in her father's name." This allegation suggests that the hearing may involve scrutiny of personal documentation details, though specific charges or discrepancies have not been officially disclosed.
Context of the SIR 2.0 Scheme
The SIR 2.0 scheme is understood to be a governmental initiative aimed at intensive review or verification processes, though its exact scope and criteria remain unclear from the available information. Such schemes often involve checks on citizenship, residency, or other legal statuses, particularly in contexts where discrepancies in official records are under scrutiny. The summoning of a high-profile figure like Goswami under this scheme has raised eyebrows, given her esteemed status in Indian sports.
Jhulan Goswami's Legacy and Public Reaction
Jhulan Goswami, renowned as one of the greatest fast bowlers in women's cricket history, has been a role model for aspiring athletes across India. Her career, spanning over two decades, includes numerous records and accolades, such as being the highest wicket-taker in women's ODIs. The news of her summons has elicited mixed reactions:
- Support from fans and sports enthusiasts who view her as an uncontroversial figure dedicated to the nation.
- Concerns over potential political motivations behind the hearing, as voiced by the TMC.
- Calls for transparency in the SIR 2.0 process to ensure fairness and avoid targeting individuals without due cause.
As of the latest updates in January 2026, no official statement has been released by Jhulan Goswami or her representatives regarding the hearing. The BJP has also not commented on the TMC's allegations, leaving the situation shrouded in uncertainty. Observers note that this incident could have broader implications for how national icons are treated under governmental schemes, especially in a politically charged environment.
Looking Ahead
The hearing is expected to proceed as scheduled, with stakeholders closely monitoring developments. Whether this case will set a precedent for other public figures or remain an isolated incident remains to be seen. For now, it underscores the intersection of sports, politics, and governance in India, highlighting the delicate balance between legal scrutiny and respect for national heroes.
