Kozhikode: Joining the debate on introduction of cheerleaders by Indian Premier League in its cricket ties, former sprint queen P T Usha said skimpily clad cheer girls should strictly comply with the Indian culture and the onus was on BCCI to ensure that performance by the dancing beauties should not cross limits.

"Cricket has come to take centrestage among all sports in the country today and it is therefore no surprise that the organisers are romping in added attractions to cheer the crowd in a bid to pay value for their money," she told PTI here.

Even as the controversy over allowing skimpily-clad cheerleaders in IPL matches continues to rage across the country and with the Delhi Daredevils deciding to drop them for the season, the former Olympian feels it is time that the Cricket Board lays down a strict code of conduct for the show.

"Ours is a country with diversified culture and centuries-old tradition which have to be preserved at any cost," Usha said, adding the US-style cheergirls will have to come under scanner for any obscenity during every match.

"Of course, times are fast changing and we also have to adapt to them but it does not mean that we can afford any kind of vulgar display," the former sprint queen said.

With Maharashtra and West Bengal setting the tone by raising stiff opposition to any form of vulgar shows, she said the onus is on the BCCI to convince the people that the dancing beauties will not throw up obscene performances.

Saying that there is nothing wrong in inviting cheerleaders to sports events to activate the crowd, she however said such performances will not be acceptable to the general public even if their style of dressing did not adhere to a common dress code.

"Will our people accept it (such dance shows) at public functions or places of worship?" she asked.

Source : PTI