BCCI Cracks Down On IPL Security Violations
- By Thetripurapost Desk, Mumbai
- May 08, 2026
- 596
Major breaches of security and anti-corruption guidelines have reportedly been detected during the ongoing edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). A report prepared by the BCCI’s Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) revealed that several unauthorized persons gained access to team dugouts, hotels and even team buses during multiple matches this season.
Treating the matter as serious, the BCCI is preparing to send a strong advisory to all ten IPL franchises. The Board has warned that strict disciplinary measures will be imposed if similar violations are repeated in future.
ACSU flags serious irregularities
IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal confirmed that the ACSU has submitted a comprehensive report to the BCCI regarding the issue. Dhumal said the anti-corruption unit identified multiple irregularities linked to restricted access zones.
According to him, outsiders were found entering dugouts, team buses and hotel areas reserved only for players and match officials. He added that the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) operates under specific protocols designed to protect the integrity of the tournament.
Dhumal further stated that franchises would be instructed to strictly follow all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure transparency and fairness in the competition.
Unauthorized access to hotel rooms
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia also voiced concern over the issue and expressed dissatisfaction with the conduct of some franchises and players during the tournament.
Saikia said the Board had observed several outsiders moving freely alongside team members. He also alleged that some individuals entered hotel rooms occupied by players and officials without authorization, which he described as a direct violation of the IPL’s anti-corruption framework.
Team owners under scrutiny too
The BCCI is reportedly monitoring not only outsiders but also franchise owners and senior officials. Saikia said it was noticed that some owners and top-level team representatives were interacting with players in restricted areas where their entry is not permitted under tournament regulations.
He emphasized that the Board has taken the matter very seriously and would soon issue an advisory with mandatory compliance instructions. Any further violation after the warning, he said, could lead to strict action from both the BCCI and IPL management.
Understanding the PMOA protocol
To safeguard the IPL from corruption and match-fixing activities, the BCCI enforces a restricted zone known as the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA). This zone includes dressing rooms, dugouts and other designated operational spaces connected to the match.
Entry into these areas is limited strictly to players, coaching staff, support personnel and authorized match officials.
The use of mobile phones and other communication devices inside the PMOA is completely prohibited under anti-corruption regulations.
Even franchise owners are barred from entering dugouts or dressing rooms after the toss. During the Rajasthan Royals versus Royal Challengers Bengaluru match in Guwahati on April 10, Rajasthan Royals team manager Romi Bhinder was reportedly seen using a mobile phone inside the dugout.
Strict vigilance since 2013 scandal
The BCCI has remained highly cautious regarding the IPL’s credibility ever since the 2013 spot-fixing controversy shook Indian cricket.
Following that scandal, the responsibilities and powers of the ACSU were significantly expanded. Every IPL franchise is now assigned a dedicated ACSU officer to closely monitor players’ activities, movements and interactions throughout the tournament.
According to recent reports, attempts were made this season to bypass certain monitoring systems, prompting the Board to intervene before the situation escalated further.