Introduction
WPL 2026 has created historic opportunities for women athletes in India. With rising salaries, major brand deals, TV broadcasting revenue, and global attention, protecting their legal rights is more important than ever.
This guide explains every legal protection available for women cricketers and athletes in India—covering salary rules, harassment laws, contract rights, cybercrime, discrimination, and complaint processes.
WPL Salary & Payment Rules (2026)
WPL players are protected under BCCI’s central contract and franchise agreements. Legally, players are entitled to:
- Guaranteed full salary before the season ends
- No salary deductions without written consent
- Insurance for injuries during training & matches
- Mandatory payment within stipulated deadlines
- Right to audit their payment slips
Contract Rights of WPL Athletes
Every WPL player contract must include:
- Clear fee structure and bonuses
- Brand endorsement guidelines
- Insurance coverage
- Travel & accommodation rights
- Termination rules
- No unfair or exploitative conditions
Harassment & Safety Laws for Women Athletes
Women athletes are protected under:
- POSH Act (2013) – Protection against workplace sexual harassment
- IPC Section 354, 354D – Stalking, harassment, inappropriate behaviour
- BCCI Internal Complaints Committee for sports
- State Women’s Commission (for escalated cases)
How to File Cybercrime Complaint
Steps to report online abuse:
- Visit cybercrime.gov.in
- Select “Report Women/Child related crime”
- Upload screenshots
- Provide details
- Submit & save acknowledgment
Gender Discrimination Laws in Sports
- Equal opportunity under Article 15 & 16
- Right to equal pay for equal work
- No discrimination in selection or promotion
- Right to safe and fair working environment
Contract Termination Rules
A franchise cannot terminate a WPL player without:
- Written notice
- Valid documented reason
- Opportunity to respond
- Full payment settlement
How to Report Misconduct
Women athletes can file a complaint with:
- BCCI Internal Complaints Committee
- State Women’s Commission
- Local Police Station
- National Cybercrime Portal
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the salary rights of WPL players?
- WPL athletes are entitled to guaranteed salary, timely payments, insurance coverage, and written payment slips as per BCCI rules.
- Can WPL players file harassment complaints?
- Yes. Women players are protected under POSH Act, IPC Section 354/354D, and BCCI’s internal committees.
- Can a WPL contract be terminated?
- Only with written notice, valid reasons, and full payment settlement.