Bhopal: A Punjab Kings cricketer, his retired IPS officer father, and their driver have been booked by Bhopal Police following allegations of assault, abuse, wrongful confinement, and intimidation made by a newly hired cook at their residence.

The case involves cricketer Shashank Singh, his father Shailesh Singh, a former Special Director General of Madhya Pradesh Police, and their driver. The complaint was filed by 31-year-old Vipendra Singh Tomar, a resident of Rewa district.

FIR registered, investigation underway

According to police officials, an FIR has been registered at Ratibad Police Station under Sections 296(a), 115(2), and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). These sections relate to the use of obscene language, voluntarily causing hurt, and acts done with common intention.

A senior police officer confirmed that the case has been taken up for investigation. Authorities stated that further action will depend on the findings of the inquiry.

Complainant alleges assault and confinement

In his complaint, Vipendra Singh Tomar stated that he was hired on June 25 as a cook for the family at their residence on Neelbad-Mendori Road. He was offered a monthly salary of ₹15,000 along with food and accommodation.

Tomar alleged that from the very beginning, his work was criticised and his mobile phone was taken away. He claimed that on June 28, after serving breakfast, he asked for his phone to be returned, which led to an altercation.

According to the FIR, Tomar alleged that Shailesh Singh, Shashank Singh and their driver entered his room, assaulted him physically, abused him, and forced him to transfer ₹1,000 from his account towards expenses. He further claimed that he was thrown out of the house and his belongings were not returned.

The complainant also alleged that he was threatened with false criminal charges, including theft and robbery, if he attempted to leave the job. He stated that he had locked himself in his room out of fear before the alleged assault took place.

Video surfaces, prior complaint cited

Following the incident, Tomar released a video on social media in which he appeared distressed and claimed he had been assaulted. He also showed alleged injury marks on his face and body.

Tomar said he had come to Bhopal through an acquaintance who promised him employment and possible assistance in securing a government job.

The allegations have gained further attention as a previous complaint was reportedly filed against Shailesh Singh earlier this year. In May 2026, another individual accused him of similar misconduct, including confinement and assault, though details of that case remain under scrutiny.

Shashank Singh denies allegations

Responding to the accusations, Shashank Singh denied all claims, describing them as “completely false.” He stated that the cook was not directly hired by the family but was sent by an acquaintance.

According to the cricketer, the cook demanded an advance payment of ₹20,000 shortly after arriving. He said the family asked him to work for a day before any payment was made.

Shashank further claimed that the food prepared by the cook was unsatisfactory, leading to a decision to discontinue his services. He alleged that suspicions arose when the cook was seen moving around the house and allegedly taking photos and videos of personal belongings.

He also claimed that the family suspected the cook of substance abuse. However, he admitted that the situation could have been handled differently and that the police should have been informed at the time.

“We never physically assaulted him or abused him,” Shashank said, adding that they have video footage of the cook leaving the premises without visible injuries.

Legal process to determine facts

The case now rests on the findings of the police investigation, which will examine the claims and counterclaims made by both parties. Authorities are expected to review evidence, including video footage and medical reports, before taking further action.

Conclusion

The incident has drawn significant attention due to the involvement of a prominent cricketer and a former senior police officer. As the investigation progresses, clarity is expected to emerge regarding the allegations. Until then, the case highlights the importance of due process and careful examination of facts before conclusions are drawn.