India Maintains Firm Stance on Sports Relations with Pakistan
India's Sports Policy Regarding Pakistan
The Indian government has reiterated its strict policy regarding sports relations with Pakistan, confirming that bilateral matches between the two nations will not take place for the time being. However, players from both countries will be allowed to participate together in multinational tournaments, keeping in mind international sports regulations and the interests of athletes.
In addition, the sports ministry has announced measures to simplify the visa process to position the country as a major hub for global sporting events. The ministry has also relocated its office from Shastri Bhawan to a new facility in Netaji Nagar.
On May 6, 2026, the sports ministry reaffirmed its commitment to streamline the visa process for athletes, team officials, technical staff, and representatives of international sports organizations, aiming to establish India as a 'preferred sports destination.'
In a circular issued to all relevant bodies, including the Indian Olympic Association and the Sports Authority of India, the ministry stated, 'As far as bilateral sports competitions are concerned, Indian teams will not participate in events held in Pakistan, nor will we allow Pakistani teams to play in India.'
The statement continued, 'Regarding international and multinational competitions, whether held in India or abroad, we are guided by the practices of international sports organizations and the interests of our own athletes.'
Accordingly, Indian teams and individual athletes will participate in international competitions that also include teams or players from Pakistan. Similarly, Pakistani athletes and teams will be allowed to compete in such multinational events hosted by India.
This policy was first announced last August amid significant controversy surrounding India's participation in the Asia Cup cricket tournament held in the UAE, where Pakistan was also competing shortly after a terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives.
At that time, the sports ministry indicated that it would not impose any restrictions on multinational cricket competitions as long as Pakistan was not the host country. This policy clarifies that India, which aspires to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030 and the Olympics in 2036, will adhere to the Olympic Charter and its spirit of inclusivity to present itself as a welcoming host for global competitions.
The ministry stated, 'To establish India as a preferred location for hosting international sports competitions, the visa process for athletes, team officials, technical staff, and representatives of international sports organizations will be simplified.' It also mentioned that multi-entry visas would be granted on a priority basis for the duration of their official tenure, with a maximum validity of five years.
India first hosted the Asian Games in 1951, with the last event taking place in 1982, both in New Delhi. The Commonwealth Games are set to be held in Ahmedabad in 2030, and there is a possibility of hosting the 2036 Olympics there as well. Plans are also in place to host the Asian Games in the same location.