India draws red line: No bilateral sports with Pakistan, multilateral contests remain open

In a decisive shift that blends diplomacy with sport, the Union government has unveiled a new policy making it clear that India will not engage in any bilateral sporting contests with Pakistan. However, the two countries will continue to meet across arenas in international and multilateral tournaments — from next month’s Asia Cup in Dubai to future Olympic competitions.

The policy categorically rules out reciprocal visits for bilateral fixtures. “Indian teams will not be participating in competitions in Pakistan. Nor will we permit Pakistani teams to play in India,” the document states.

Yet, mindful of India’s growing ambition to host marquee global events, including the 2030 Commonwealth Games and a bid for the 2036 Summer Olympics, the policy draws a sharp distinction between bilateral and multilateral contests. “With regard to international and multilateral events, in India or abroad, we are guided by the practices of international sports bodies and the interest of our own sportspersons,” the policy clarifies.

Multilateral stage, bilateral freeze

The government emphasized that India’s emergence as a credible international host requires adhering to Olympic Charter principles, which prohibit denial of participation in multinational competitions. This means Pakistani athletes can compete in events hosted in India, and Indian teams will continue to participate in tournaments abroad where Pakistan is also present.

A senior sports ministry source underscored the nuance: “In bilateral contests, the ban is absolute. But in multilateral events, each case will be carefully examined so that Indian athletes are never left in the lurch.”

The issue has long been fraught. Pakistan’s hockey team withdrew from the Men’s Asia Cup despite clearance from New Delhi, while the India–Pakistan cricket clash in the Asia Cup remains scheduled for Dubai next month, stoking public debate amid heightened geopolitical tensions.

Positioning India on the world map

Beyond bilateral sensitivities, the policy seeks to burnish India’s credentials as a global sports hub. It promises simplified visa processes for athletes, officials, and technical staff to facilitate seamless hosting of international events.

BCCI elections under new law

Meanwhile, the sports ministry is moving to operationalize the recently passed National Sports Governance Bill ahead of the BCCI elections due next month. The legislation, if notified in time, will govern cricket board polls — replacing the Lodha Committee’s framework — and permit candidates aged up to 75 to contest, potentially paving the way for former BCCI president Roger Binny’s return.

“Once the rules are notified, all national sports federations, including the BCCI, will have to conduct elections under the new Act,” a ministry source said.