Assam Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi urges BCCI to halt cricketing ties with Pakistan

Guwahati: Deputy Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha and Assam Congress Chief Gaurav Gogoi has urged Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to refrain from cricketing engagements with Pakistan.

Gogoi in a letter to BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia said, "I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the Indian cricket team's participation in matches against Pakistan. While cricket has always been a sport that brings Joy among people, in the context of current India and Pakistan relations such engagements should not be prioritized over national interest," Gogoi said in his letter to the BCCI Secretary.

"The cross - border tensions still persist, and we all are aware of the sacrifices of our armed forces. In such circumstances playing bilateral cricket with Pakistan appears contrary to the national interest," he said.


He added, “We had sent our delegation across the globe to spread the fact that Pakistan is behind the Pahalgam terrorist attack. We have also been taking certain steps to avoid any sort of engagement with Pakistan at international level. Even our Prime Minister mentioned that water and blood cannot flow together. Engaging with Pakistan at this stage sends out a message that undermines the sentiments of the people of India who stand firmly against any compromise on national security.”

Gogoi said, "Resuming cricket ties under the present circumstances may dilute the seriousness of our national concerns regarding security and diplomacy," he said while requesting that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) must take a clear stand to avoid cricketing engagements with Pakistan until conditions are favourable and conducive to the nation's interest.

"India's stance in global forums and in bilateral relations must reflect unity, strength, and the highest regard for our sovereignty and security," Gogoi added.