Overview
- Speaking in Pune and Kolhapur, AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi asked why India played Pakistan in the Asia Cup after suspending other engagements such as trade, elements of the Indus Waters Treaty, airspace access and maritime entry.
- He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s post likening the cricket win to “Operation Sindoor” insulted the sacrifice of the armed forces.
- Owaisi argued the government paused military action after the Pahalgam massacre and “wasted” a chance to deliver a stronger response, while official messaging says Operation Sindoor was paused, not ended.
- He clarified his criticism targeted the government, not the Indian team, and contended that playing the match allowed Pakistan to receive a match fee.
- Positioning his party for local contests, he said AIMIM will contest Maharashtra civic polls independently and also attacked the BJP over unemployment and alleged targeting of minorities.