The Chandigarh Congress has strongly opposed the proposed India-Pakistan cricket matches scheduled for the 2025 Asia Cup in September, urging the Union Government to withhold clearance for the fixtures. The party argued that “terror and sports cannot go together,” questioning the strategic and moral rationale behind renewing cricketing ties with Pakistan.
Rajiv Sharma, chief spokesperson of the Chandigarh Congress, criticised the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for agreeing to play against Pakistan at a neutral venue, terming it an “unwarranted agreement” especially while Operation Sindoor, India’s ongoing response to cross-border terrorism, is still underway.
“It is extremely disappointing that while not a single perpetrator of the Pahalgam attack has been brought to justice, the cricket boards of both nations are moving towards friendly sporting ties,” Sharma said.
He further warned that Indian sponsorship funds could indirectly benefit the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which he claimed could potentially divert funds toward anti-India activities.
Sharma also questioned the BCCI’s decision to compromise on India’s hosting rights by agreeing to a neutral venue to accommodate Pakistan. He said such a move amounts to an “insult to the self-respect of the people of Chandigarh and the nation.”
The Congress leader urged Chandigarh MP Manish Tewari to raise the issue in Parliament, asking for clarity and accountability from the cricketing authorities. He also criticised the Union Territory Cricket Association for remaining silent on the matter, accusing its office-bearers of prioritising personal and political gains over national pride.
