Overview

• The Sports Ministry has issued a No Objection Certificate for Pakistan’s hockey team to compete in the Asia Cup in Rajgir, Bihar, and visa processing has begun under the MEA and MHA pending formal confirmation.
• Aaditya Thackeray has publicly demanded that the government explain its decision to host Pakistan after the Pahalgam terror attack and clarify its national security rationale.
• He criticised the investigation into the Pahalgam attack, pointing out the release of a suspect sketch later deemed fake by the NIA and the absence of arrests.
• Thackeray accused the government of prioritising diplomatic photo-ops following Operation Sindoor over tangible security outcomes, noting Pakistan’s continued access to World Bank and ADB funding and its UNSC presidency.
• He warned that the BCCI may next authorise Pakistan’s participation in the Cricket Asia Cup in the UAE and questioned whether players would risk being branded anti-national for facing Pakistan.