India’s New Sports Policy on Pakistan: No Bilateral Matches, Only Multinational Engagements

Policy Shift in Sports Diplomacy

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) has announced a major policy reform regarding India’s sporting engagement with Pakistan. As per the new directive, Indian athletes and teams will not participate in any bilateral sporting events with Pakistan, nor will they travel to the country for competitions. Similarly, Pakistani teams will not be permitted to play bilateral events in India.

However, the policy makes a distinction between bilateral and multinational events. India has clarified that its athletes will be allowed to compete in international and multilateral tournaments where Pakistani players or teams are also participating. This ensures that India remains in alignment with international sporting practices while maintaining its political stance.

Context Behind the Policy

The announcement comes in the backdrop of rising tensions following the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 tourists. The attack, attributed to Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, escalated public outrage, especially with India scheduled to face Pakistan in the upcoming Asia Cup on September 14 in Dubai.

India’s military response, Operation Sindoor on May 7, further strained bilateral relations. In this political and security environment, MYAS clarified that India’s sports policy will reflect its overall diplomatic and security stance against Pakistan.

Participation in Multinational Events

While bilateral contests are off the table, India emphasized its role as a credible venue for hosting major international sporting events. The government confirmed that Indian players and teams would continue to compete against Pakistan in multinational tournaments held in India or abroad. Similarly, Pakistan’s teams and players will be able to participate in such multilateral events hosted in India.

This approach balances political accountability with athletic opportunity, ensuring Indian athletes do not face isolation on the global stage.

Simplified Visa Policy for Sports Bodies

In line with India’s ambition to emerge as a global sports hub, the MYAS has announced a simplified visa regime for sportspersons, team officials, technical personnel, and office-bearers of international sports governing bodies.

Key features of the new visa policy include:

  • Multi-entry visas granted on a priority basis.

  • Validity extended for the duration of their official tenure, subject to a maximum of five years.

  • Ensuring smooth entry and movement of international sporting officials within India.

  • Extending due protocol and courtesies to Heads of International Sports Governing Bodies during visits.

This move aligns India with international norms and strengthens its position as a preferred destination for global sports events.

Balancing Politics and Sports

The policy underscores India’s firm stance: while political and security concerns dictate the ban on bilateral events, international sports commitments and athlete interests remain safeguarded.

By separating bilateral hostility from multilateral cooperation, India projects itself as a responsible global sports host that upholds integrity in international competitions while staying true to its national interests.

Conclusion

The new sports policy is a carefully balanced approach—one that combines diplomatic firmness with sporting inclusivity. India will not normalize bilateral sports ties with Pakistan as long as terror-backed tensions persist. Yet, by remaining engaged in global tournaments and easing access for international sporting officials, the country reaffirms its status as a credible and influential sports hub on the world stage.


Location: Pune, Maharashtra, India

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