India bans bilateral sports ties with Pakistan, allows Asia Cup participation

In a significant policy shift, the Sports Ministry on Thursday announced that India will not engage in any bilateral sporting events with Pakistan, even at neutral venues. However, Indian athletes, including the cricket team, will continue to participate in multilateral tournaments, such as the upcoming Asia Cup.

New Policy Effective Immediately

According to ministry officials, the new policy bars Indian teams from traveling to Pakistan for bilateral matches and also prevents Pakistani athletes from competing in India in such events.

The policy comes amid heightened tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives earlier this year, and subsequent Operation Sindoor.

Exceptions for Multilateral Events

Despite the ban on bilaterals, multilateral events remain unaffected. The Indian cricket team will travel to the UAE for the Asia Cup starting September 9. The ministry stressed that athletes should not be “left in the lurch” when global tournaments are involved.

For events hosted in India, Pakistani athletes will still be granted visas, ensuring adherence to international sporting norms.

India’s Global Sporting Vision

The ministry emphasized that the decision aligns with India’s aspiration to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games and the 2036 Olympics. To boost India’s reputation as a global sporting hub, the government plans to simplify visa procedures for athletes, officials, and international sports body representatives.

Priority multi-entry visas valid for up to five years will be provided to top officials to facilitate smooth international engagements.