Guwahati, Aug 25 (PTI)—Gaurav Gogoi, Congress's deputy leader in the Lok Sabha, has called on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to reconsider the Indian cricket team's participation in matches against Pakistan due to ongoing cross-border tensions. Gogoi's appeal comes in the aftermath of the recent Pahalgam terror attack. He argues that playing cricket against Pakistan amid current relations undermines national interest. India is set to face Pakistan in the Asia Cup's group stage match in Dubai on September 14.
In an open letter addressed to BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, dated August 23 and released to the press on Monday, Gogoi expressed that while cricket traditionally fosters joy, the current geopolitical climate demands prioritization of national security over sports engagements. He highlighted the persistent tensions and the sacrifices of the armed forces, deeming a bilateral cricket series with Pakistan as contrary to national interest. India had actively campaigned internationally to highlight Pakistan's alleged involvement in the Pahalgam attack, further amplified by Prime Minister's remarks about the incompatibility of peace and aggression.
Moreover, India withdrew from the Indus Waters Treaty shortly after the assault in Jammu and Kashmir. Gogoi emphasized that engaging with Pakistan now could send a detrimental message that undermines public sentiment in India against compromising national security. The Jorhat MP also noted Pakistan's withdrawal from a hockey series in India, citing security issues, illustrating the delicate nature of bilateral sports engagements.
He further argued that resuming cricket ties under current circumstances could potentially dilute the seriousness of India's security concerns and diplomatic stance. India's global and bilateral relations should reflect unity, authority, and a commitment to sovereignty and security, he added.
Gogoi urged the BCCI to adopt a decisive position, avoiding engagements with Pakistan until favorable and favorable conditions emerged. He previously reached out to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on August 14, appealing for his influence, given Sarma's connections with Saikia, to convince the BCCI to cancel the Dubai encounter.
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