The recent cricket match between India and Pakistan at the Asia Cup has left many Indians, especially military veterans, families of martyrs, and concerned citizens, deeply disappointed. This was not just another sporting event — it came against the backdrop of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, including the recent Pahalgam attack, where innocent citizens were brutally killed and our brave soldiers laid down their lives during operations.
Even the Hon’ble Prime Minister has admitted that Operation Sindoor has only been paused. When our forces are making sacrifices at the border and inside almost daily fighting terrorists, how can we, as a nation, normalize relations through cricket?
The International Precedent
- Russia was boycotted by the world and not allowed to participate in the Olympics after its aggression in Ukraine.
- Israel has consistently refused to play with certain nations due to security and ideological concerns.
If the world community can draw such strong red lines, why can’t India — a nation that has repeatedly suffered the brunt of Pakistan-sponsored terror?
The Role of BCCI and Political Will
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), often backed by political and corporate muscle, has failed to uphold national sentiment. Allowing cricket ties with Pakistan, even in multi-sport events, sends the wrong message — that we are willing to compartmentalize terrorism and sports.
Where is the political will? Where is the international lobby that should stand with India against terrorism? By agreeing to play, India has inadvertently allowed Pakistan to claim legitimacy and normalcy on the world stage.
Silence of Star Cricketers
Many of our cricketing icons proudly carry honorary ranks in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. These honorary titles come with respect and responsibility. Yet, their silence is deafening. Why are they not raising their voices against playing Pakistan? Why is it only the common man and veterans who express anguish, while the stars prefer to remain apolitical in matters that are deeply national?
The Military’s Role
The Indian Armed Forces have traditionally stayed away from politics — and rightly so. Yet, when it comes to issues of national security and red lines, shouldn’t there be a moral assertion? If the forces say, loud and clear, “Terror and sports cannot go together,” no government, bureaucrat, or sports body would dare to dilute that principle.
Time to Take a Stand
India has every right to refuse sporting ties with a nation that continues to bleed us through terrorism. By allowing cricket matches against Pakistan, we are normalizing the abnormal. We are disrespecting the blood of our martyrs.
It is time for the BCCI, the political leadership, and even our cricketing heroes to remember — national interest is bigger than cricket.
Sports cannot be used as a fig leaf to hide terrorism.
It is time to draw the line.
