The participation of Pakistan's hockey teams in the upcoming Asia Cup and the Junior Hockey World Cup, both to be held in India, has been a subject of much discussion. However, recent reports indicate that the Indian government has granted clearance for their participation in these multinational events.
The green signal from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) marks a significant step in maintaining the spirit of sportsmanship and adhering to the Olympic Charter. This decision aligns with the principles of inclusiveness and harmony, which are fundamental to the Olympic movement. By allowing Pakistan to participate, India is also ensuring that it avoids potential sanctions from the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
The Asia Cup is scheduled to take place in Rajgir, Bihar, from August 27 to September 7. Following that, the FIH Men's Junior World Cup will be held in Chennai and Madurai from November 28 to December 10. The junior tournament will feature 24 teams for the first time. In the junior world cup, India and Pakistan are in the same pool.
The decision to permit Pakistan's participation is particularly noteworthy given the recent tensions between the two countries. Previous concerns about Pakistan's participation arose after the Pahalgam terror attack and the subsequent Operation Sindoor launched by the Indian government. Granting clearance, the Indian government has chosen to keep politics and sports separate, upholding the values of the Olympic Charter. This decision also demonstrates India's commitment to international sports and its willingness to avoid isolating itself from the global sporting community.
According to a source in the sports ministry, while India is not against any team competing in a multi-nation event within the country, bilateral events are different. This stance suggests that while India is committed to participating in multi-lateral events that include Pakistan, it will likely maintain its policy of avoiding bilateral sports engagements.
Hockey India has welcomed the government's decision, with its president, Dilip Tirkey, calling it "great news for hockey in the country". He also acknowledged that as the host country, India needs to take great care of Pakistan, especially considering the recent conflicts on the borders.
The clearance for the hockey events could potentially pave the way for Pakistani athletes to participate in other international sporting events in India. This includes the Junior World Cup of shooting and the World Para Athletics Championships, both scheduled to be held in Delhi later this year.
The last time Pakistan's men's hockey team played in India was at the 2023 Asian Champions Trophy in Chennai. Prior to that, they visited India for the 2018 Hockey World Cup in Bhubaneswar.
