NEW DELHI: India has decided against engaging in bilateral sports series with Pakistan, according to media reports citing official directives issued by the Indian government.
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The Indian Ministry of Sports has reportedly instructed national sports federations, the Olympic association, and other relevant authorities not to participate in direct bilateral competitions with Pakistan. The directive applies to both hosting and touring arrangements between the two countries.
Under the policy, India will neither host Pakistani teams for bilateral series on its soil nor send its own teams to Pakistan for such engagements. The move reflects the government’s stance on limiting direct sporting ties between the neighboring nations.
However, the ministry clarified that participation in multilateral or international sporting events will continue in accordance with global regulations and athletes’ interests. This means that Indian and Pakistani teams may still compete against each other in tournaments organized by international sports bodies.
Additionally, if India hosts international competitions, Pakistani teams will be allowed to participate as per the rules and guidelines of global sporting organizations, ensuring compliance with international standards.
The development underscores the continued strain in sporting relations between the two countries, even as avenues remain open through multinational events.
