New Delhi [India]: The Government of India has instituted reforms in its policy regarding engagement with Pakistan in the realm of sports, announcing that Indian athletes and teams will now be permitted to participate in "international events that also include teams or players from Pakistan." However, India will maintain its position of abstaining from competitions held in Pakistan and will not engage in any bilateral contests.
Additionally, it has been declared that the visa policy will be "simplified" for athletes, team officials, technical personnel, and office-bearers of International Sports Governing Bodies for a "maximum" duration of five years, as confirmed by a source within the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) on Thursday.
This announcement coincides with the ongoing discussions surrounding the Indian cricket team's match against Pakistan in the forthcoming Asia Cup, scheduled for September 14 in Dubai.
The MYAS clarified that India will not partake in bilateral events with Pakistan, stating, "India's stance on sports events involving Pakistan is reflective of its broader policy towards that nation. In terms of bilateral sports events conducted in each other's territories, Indian teams shall refrain from participating in competitions hosted in Pakistan.
Furthermore, we will not permit Pakistani teams to compete in India. In relation to international and multilateral events, whether in India or abroad, we adhere to the regulations set forth by international sports bodies and prioritize the interests of our own athletes."
Recognizing India's emergence as a reputable venue for high-caliber international events, individual athletes and teams from various nations will be able to compete against Pakistan in multinational tournaments hosted by India. "It is also pertinent to acknowledge India's development as a credible location for hosting international sports events.
Consequently, Indian teams and individual athletes will be allowed to participate in international events that feature teams or players from Pakistan. Likewise, Pakistani athletes and teams will be permitted to compete in such multilateral events hosted by India," MYAS stated.
"To enhance India's position as a favored destination for international sporting events, the visa application process for athletes, team officials, technical personnel, and office-bearers of International Sports Governing Bodies will be simplified," MYAS further added.
The MYAS also confirmed that multi-entry visas will be prioritized for issuance throughout the duration of official tenures, stating, "In relation to office-bearers of International Sports Governing Bodies, multi-entry visas will be granted on a priority basis for the length of their official tenure, subject to a maximum period of five years. This initiative will facilitate their seamless movement into and within the country, in accordance with international standards."
"Appropriate protocol and courtesies, in line with established practices, will be extended to the Heads of International Sports Governing Bodies during their visits to India," MYAS concluded.
