Jemimah Rodrigues' father refuses allegation following Khar Gymkhana membership revocation

Ivan Rodrigues, father of Indian women's cricket team batter Jemimah Rodrigues, has recently refuted allegations of conducting conversion meetings at the prestigious Khar Gymkhana, following the termination of his daughter's membership.

The controversy emerged when Khar Gymkhana, during its Annual General Meeting (AGM), unanimously decided to revoke Jemimah's membership after receiving multiple complaints from members about the alleged misuse of facilities by her father. The complaints were around religious gatherings conducted by Ivan at the club premises. Addressing the allegations, the cricketer's father issued a detailed statement clarifying his position.

"We had availed of the facilities at the Khar Gymkhana for the purpose of prayer meetings on multiple occasions over a period of a year since April 2023. However, this was done in complete accordance with the procedures that Khar Gymkhana have in place, and in full knowledge of the office bearers. The prayer meetings were open to all and were in no way 'conversion meetings' as is wrongly labelled in articles in the media," he told in a statement.

"When we were told to stop conducting the prayer meetings, we respected the stance of the Gymkhana and did so with immediate effect. When informed about the difference in rates for members and guests, we readily cleared the arrears. We are honest, law-abiding people who are grateful that we can practise our faith without it being a cause of inconvenience to anyone else. To then be the subject of false claims and misinformation is disheartening. We have and continue to wish only the best for everyone," Ivan added. 

Ivan Rodrigues confirms of settling all outstanding amounts

The controversy also involved financial aspects, with questions raised about payment disparities between member and guest rates. Rodrigues confirmed that all outstanding amounts were promptly settled once the rate difference was brought to their attention.

Also Read: Jemimah Rodrigues' honorary Khar Gymkhana membership revoked over father's alleged religious practices

The incident quickly gained attention, particularly given Jemimah being part of the Indian women's team. The termination of her membership at Khar Gymkhana was a bold move involving religious practices and membership privileges at one of Mumbai's prestigious sporting clubs.