Shiv Sena protest against Pakistani hockey players reflect public anger: Congress

NEW DELHI: Shiv Sena's demand that Pakistani hockey players should not be allowed to play reflects the anger among people and political parties over the beheading of an Indian soldier, Congress said today.

"Nobody should take the law in their hands. But there is anger in the whole country. People and parties are angry. Every political party has its separate way of expressing its anger. Shiv Sena is expressing anger in its way. The anger is definitely justified. I am not denying it. But one should not lose one's sensibility in anger," Congress spokesperson Rashid Alvi said.

The reaction is significant given the fact that Congress has always been critical of Shiv Sena over the issue of its opposition to sports ties with Pakistan. In the past, Sena activists have dug cricket pitches in Mumbai and Delhi to stop Pakistani players from playing matches.

He also said that though India wants friendship with every country, this does not mean it will take decisions under any pressure or by bearing humiliation.

Asked specifically whether the matches should happen or not, he said, "Government will take a decision after examining the issue".

Sena workers had yesterday staged a protest at Mumbai Hockey Association's stadium against the participation of four Pakistani players in a scheduled practise session of 'Mumbai Magicians' team.

Nine Pakistani hockey players are participating in the inaugural edition of the Hockey India League (HIL).