As India gears up to face Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025, nationwide protests have erupted, turning a cricket match into a flashpoint for patriotism and political outrage. From Delhi to Mumbai, citizens, political parties, and families of terror victims are demanding a boycott, citing the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives.
Cricket Diplomacy Under Fire
India-Pakistan cricket has always mirrored the political climate between the two nations. Historically, bilateral matches were suspended after the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and since then, India has only played Pakistan in multilateral tournaments like the ICC World Cup and Asia Cup.
Past Precedents
- In 1999, during the Kargil War, cricket diplomacy was halted.
- Shiv Sena has consistently opposed matches with Pakistan, citing national trauma and unresolved conflict.
- The April 22, 2025 Pahalgam attack has reignited public anger, with victims’ families calling the match “a betrayal of sacrifice.”
Protests Intensify Across Cities
Protests have surged in major cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, and Lucknow. Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders have warned restaurant owners against screening the match, threatening vandalism. Meanwhile, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders burned effigies of cricket officials and accused the Modi government of prioritizing entertainment over national dignity.
Symbolic Campaigns Gain Momentum
- Civil society groups launched a “No Cricket With Terror” campaign, which quickly trended on social media.
- In Pune, women’s groups performed symbolic rituals and sent sindoor to the Prime Minister as a plea for moral accountability.
Political Reactions and Legal Standpoint
While opposition parties have united in protest, the BJP defended its position. Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur clarified that India does not engage in bilateral cricket with Pakistan, but participation in ICC/ACC tournaments is mandatory. Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis urged restraint, stating that “emotions are valid, but the match is not a bilateral engagement.”
The Supreme Court dismissed a plea to halt the match, citing lack of jurisdiction over international fixtures.
Sampadak Express Verdict
This match is no longer just about cricket—it’s a national litmus test. As stadiums fill and screens light up, India must confront a deeper question: can sport truly remain separate from sacrifice? The protests reflect a growing demand for moral clarity in foreign policy and cultural engagement.
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📌 Reporting and Edited for clarity and impact by Deepak
