New Delhi, July 16, 2025: India’s Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has clarified that the Indian government will not obstruct Pakistan’s participation in upcoming international sports events hosted by India, despite recent political tensions between the two nations.
India is set to host several major tournaments this year, including the Men’s Asia Cup Hockey Tournament next month and the FIH Junior World Cup in November–December. Additionally, the ACC Men’s Asia Cup 2025, tentatively scheduled from September 12 to 28, also lists India as the official host, although a hybrid model involving the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as co-host remains under consideration.
Amid cross-border tensions that escalated in May, speculation had surfaced over India’s willingness to play against Pakistan in the upcoming six-nation Asia Cup. These concerns were later dismissed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
In the case of hockey, Indian media reported earlier this month that barring Pakistan from participation would contradict the Olympic Charter, leading to confirmation that no restrictions would be placed on their entry.
In a recent statement, Minister Mandaviya reaffirmed India’s position:
“Our stand is clear. We don’t have any problems playing with Pakistan in any international sporting event—be it cricket, hockey, or any other sport. But when it comes to bilateral engagements, the government’s position is well known.”
He further explained that while India has granted visas for Pakistan’s participation in both hockey tournaments, it is now up to the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) and the Pakistani government to decide on the team’s participation.
“We have told Pakistan that we will grant them visas for the Asia Cup and Junior World Cup hockey tournaments, but it is up to their government now to decide whether to send teams or not. We have no problem,” Mandaviya said.
He assured that all teams participating in these tournaments would receive equal treatment and reiterated India’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of international sports events regardless of diplomatic issues.
The remarks come as a significant signal of sports diplomacy, even as formal bilateral series between India and Pakistan remain suspended due to longstanding political differences.
