Guwahati: The Congress party has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to reconsider India’s participation in the upcoming Asia Cup match against Pakistan, citing national interest and strained bilateral relations.
In a letter addressed to BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia, Congress Deputy Leader in Lok Sabha Gaurav Gogoi said that India’s scheduled group-stage clash with Pakistan on September 14 in Dubai should not go ahead.
“Cricket has always been a sport that brings joy to people, but in the current context of India-Pakistan relations, such events should not be placed above national interest,” Gogoi wrote.
He recalled that the Indian government had sent delegations to multiple countries to highlight Pakistan’s alleged role in the recent Pahalgam terror attack. “Even our Prime Minister had said that water and blood cannot flow together, hinting at India’s move to reconsider the Indus Waters Treaty,” Gogoi added.
The Assam Congress chief warned that resuming cricketing ties at this juncture would send the wrong message. “It would weaken the sentiments of the Indian people who stand firmly against any compromise on national security,” he said, pointing out that Pakistan itself had recently refused to play hockey in India.
Gogoi emphasized that India’s position in global forums and bilateral relations must reflect unity, strength, and an uncompromising stance on sovereignty and security.
