Bhopal, November 8, 2025 - Following India's triumphant victory in the ICC Women's ODI World Cup, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has pledged to reinstate Munna Singh Gaud, the father of star cricketer Kranti Gaud, to his position as a police constable. Munna Singh Gaud has been under suspension since 2012, following an incident during election duty.

The announcement came during a felicitation ceremony held in Bhopal on Friday to honor Kranti Gaud's pivotal role in the World Cup win. Kranti, along with her parents, Munna Singh Gaud and Neelam Singh Gaud, and her coach Rajeev Birthare, were present at the event.

Chief Minister Yadav, recognizing the hardships faced by the family, assured Kranti and her parents that he would initiate the process of reinstating Munna Singh Gaud in accordance with existing regulations. "I've come to know about your family's difficulties; there is provision of appeal to the state government. We will certainly work for the reinstatement of your father as per the existing rules," the Chief Minister stated.

The suspension of Munna Singh Gaud in 2012 plunged the family into financial instability. Kranti's elder brothers had to work as laborers and bus conductors to support the family, which includes six children, with Kranti being the youngest. Despite these challenges, Kranti pursued her passion for cricket, eventually becoming a key player in the Indian women's cricket team.

Kranti's journey to the world stage began in Ghuwara village, Chhatarpur district, where she was known as the 'ball boy' for local tennis ball cricket tournaments. Her dedication and talent led her to become a leading pace bowler for the Indian team, showcasing her skills during the tour of England and ultimately contributing to India's World Cup victory.

"Return home only after winning," Kranti's father had told her before the tournament. On November 2nd, at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, she helped India defend a score of 299, defeating South Africa by 52 runs to secure their first ICC Women's ODI World Cup title.

In addition to addressing the Gaud family's situation, Chief Minister Yadav announced that Kranti would be honored on November 15 in Jabalpur during the state-level Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, celebrating the birth anniversary of tribal icon Bhagwan Birsa Munda. He also revealed plans to construct a new cricket stadium in Kranti's home district of Chhatarpur to nurture local sporting talent.

The Chief Minister emphasized the significance of Kranti's achievement, stating, "This family has given India a world champion. Their story deserves not just applause, but support". He further added, "We'll explore every avenue, including the appeal provisions available, to set this right".

The felicitation ceremony was attended by senior officials, sports figures, and members of Kranti's family. Chief Minister Yadav presented Kranti with a gold medal and a reward of one crore rupees, previously announced. The promise of reinstating her father has brought renewed hope to the Gaud family, marking a potential end to years of hardship and struggle.