After recent targeted killings of civilians in Jammu and Kashmir, many people have risen up in protest. Amid prevailing border dispute with Pakistan, senior political leaders have strongly condemned the spate of terror attacks. Voices of protest have also grown against Pakistan’s repeated attempts to foment violence.
Meanwhile, all cricketers and cricket enthusiasts are waiting for the epic face-off between India and Pakistan in the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. But political tensions have started to rise days ahead of the Sunday clash. Leaders of several parties have opposed the ICC fixture, claiming that BCCI and government should reconsider playing Pakistan and ensure the match should not go ahead.
While BCCI had already ruled out bilateral series with Pakistan years ago because of tension with the border nation, the Board’s vice-president Rajeev Shukla has clarified its stance.
The Congress leader has strongly condemned the killing in Jammu and Kashmir. But he also said that as far as the India Pakistan World Cup match is concerned, you cannot refuse to play against anyone under ICC’s international commitments. Rajeev Shukla said strict action should be taken against terror organisations, but the match against Pakistan has to be played as it is an ICC tournament.
But it seems leaders of Shiv Sena, AAP and other parties are of the opinion that unless such attacks in India and targeted attacks on Indians stop, it will not be right to play matches like this.
The much-awaited high-octane clash between India and Pakistan will take place on October 24 in Dubai.
Video Editor: Partha Narayan Das
Producer: Sanchita Mondal