IND vs PAK Asia : On Thursday, the Supreme Court declined to grant an urgent hearing on a Public Interest Litigation that sought cancellation of the upcoming India vs Pakistan Asia Cup clash. The much-anticipated game is slated for Sunday (September 14) in Dubai.
IND vs PAK Asia : Following the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor earlier this year, many have opposed India’s participation against Pakistan in the tournament. The hostilities at the border had escalated to near war-like conditions in May.
Last month, however, the Indian government clarified its position, confirming that while bilateral cricket with Pakistan remains suspended, participation in multilateral events—including cricket and other sports—will continue.
Regarding the PIL, the petitioners’ counsel requested an urgent listing on Friday, but the bench of Justices JK Maheshwari and Vijay Bishnoi turned it down. “What is the urgency? It’s just a match, let it be,” Justice Maheshwari remarked.
The petition, filed by four law students, argued that holding the match undermines national dignity and hurts public sentiment. It stated that while cricket is generally meant to foster harmony, playing Pakistan so soon after the Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor sends the wrong message—that India is celebrating sport with the same nation accused of harboring terrorists. The plea further noted that such a move could deeply wound the families of the victims, emphasizing that national dignity and citizens’ security should take precedence over entertainment.