India rules out bilateral sports with Pakistan, to continue competing in international events

India has once again confirmed that it will not engage in bilateral sporting competitions with Pakistan, but it will continue the policy of playing against its neighbours in international events. India’s latest sporting policy towards Pakistan is a continuation of its current approach.

The latest policy was confirmed by an official circular that was issued by the Sports Ministry to National Sports Federations, the Indian Olympic Association and the Sports Authority of India.

‘We will not permit Pakistani teams to play in India’

The Sports Ministry said that Pakistani teams will not be allowed to compete in India in bilateral assignments, but approvals will be provided for multilateral events.

“In so far as bilateral sports events in each other’s country are concerned, Indian teams will not be participating in competitions in Pakistan. Nor will we permit Pakistani teams to play in India,” the Sports Ministry said.

“With regard to international and multilateral events, in India or abroad, we are guided by the practices of international sports bodies and the interest of our own sportspersons.

“Accordingly, Indian teams and individual players will take part in international events that also have teams or players from Pakistan. Similarly, Pakistani players and teams will be able to participate in such multilateral events hosted by India.”

It’s important to note that the policy of not playing against Pakistan in bilaterals is not limited only to cricket but to all other sports.

The same policy was announced by the Indian government last year after criticism of playing against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025, which was played after the Pahalgam attack.

The Sports Ministry added that the visa process for sports teams and officials will be eased to make India an attractive destination.

“To position India as a preferred destination for hosting international sporting events, the visa process for sportspersons, team officials, technical personnel, and office-bearers of International Sports Governing Bodies shall be simplified,” the Sports Ministry added.

“In respect of office-bearers of International Sports Governing Bodies, a multi-entry visa shall be granted on priority basis for the duration of their official tenure, subject to a maximum period of five years.”

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