INDIA’S SPORTS MINISTRY has reaffirmed that the ban on bilateral sporting ties with Pakistan will remain in place, while stating that Pakistani athletes will be permitted to participate in multinational events hosted in India.
The statement comes as India continues its bid efforts for the 2030 Commonwealth Games and the 2036 Olympic Games. The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) has issued a circular to the National Sports Federations (NSFs), IOA, and SAI, reaffirming the government’s stance on India’s participation in multi-national events featuring Pakistan.
The circular comes as debate mounts over India sharing tournament platforms with Pakistan, triggered by the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people. The ministry stated that “In so far as bilateral sports events in each other’s country are concerned, Indian teams will not be participating in competitions in Pakistan. Nor will we permit Pakistani teams to play in India.”
The circular also mentioned “Indian teams and individual players will take part in international events that also have teams or players from Pakistan. Similarly, Pakistani players and teams will be able to participate in such multilateral events hosted by India.”
The circular also touched on India’s ambition to become a trusted home for global sports, with the ministry pledging to uphold the Olympic Charter and embrace inclusivity in hosting international tournaments.
“To position India as a preferred destination for hosting international sporting events, the visa process for sportspersons, team officials, technical personnel, and office-bearers of International Sports Governing Bodies shall be simplified,” the ministry commented.
The government announced priority multi-entry visas of up to five years for international sports administrators during their tenure and pledged to extend fitting protocol and courtesies to visiting heads of international sports organizations.
