India to Host Major Sporting Events Amidst Political Tensions

India is set to be the venue for significant upcoming sporting competitions, including the Men’s Hockey Asia Cup and the ACC Men’s Asia Cup. Despite ongoing strained political relations, particularly those exacerbated in May, India’s Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has affirmed that the government will not impede Pakistan’s participation in these international events.

Upcoming Tournaments

Several major tournaments are slated to occur in India this year. Among these are the Men’s Asia Cup hockey tournament in the coming month and the FIH Junior World Cup scheduled for November and December.

ACC Men’s Asia Cup 2025

Looking ahead, India is also the designated host for the ACC Men’s Asia Cup 2025, provisionally planned from September 12 to 28. It is anticipated that this tournament may adopt a hybrid format, potentially involving the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as a co-host.

Government Stance on Participation

Speculation arose following heightened tensions between India and Pakistan in May, suggesting India might decline to compete against Pakistan in the six-team tournament. However, these speculations were quickly dispelled by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

Earlier reports in Indian media indicated that the government would likely permit the Pakistan hockey team’s participation, aligning with the principles of the Olympic Charter.

Sports Minister’s Statement

India’s Sports Minister Mandaviya has communicated that India faces ‘no issue’ competing against Pakistan in international sporting events. However, he restated that bilateral sporting engagements are contingent upon governmental decisions.

Minister’s Quote

“Our position is unambiguous. We are open to competing with Pakistan in any international sporting event, be it cricket, hockey, or any other sport. However, bilateral engagements are subject to the government’s established policy,” Mandaviya stated.

Pakistan’s Decision Pending

While the Indian government has reportedly approved the Pakistan team’s involvement in the forthcoming hockey tournaments, the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has conveyed that their final decision will be made pending clearance from their own government.

Mandaviya added, “We have assured Pakistan of visa issuance for the Asia Cup and Junior World Cup hockey tournaments. The decision to send their teams rests with their government. We have no objections.”

In conclusion, he noted, “These are both international tournaments, and all participating teams will receive equal treatment.”