Sports ministry sets clear policy on India-Pakistan sporting ties, maintains bilateral ban; opens doors for multinational event

The Sports Ministry confirmed on May 6 that the comprehensive ban on bilateral sporting ties with Pakistan, initially established last year, will remain strictly in effect. Despite this ongoing restriction on one-on-one series, the government clarified that Pakistani athletes will not be barred from entering India to compete in multi-lateral tournaments. This approach ensures that India upholds its regional policy while continuing to host major international championships.

ALSO READ: 'MS Dhoni might get a farewell game in...': Ex-CSK star reveals MSD's last show in IPL 2026

India’s policy on bilateral sports with Pakistan

In a broader effort to establish India as a preferred sporting destination, the ministry also emphasised its commitment to streamlining the entry process for the global sporting community. This includes initiatives to simplify visa procedures for athletes, coaching staff, technical officials, and representatives from international governing bodies. By easing these administrative hurdles, the ministry aims to facilitate smoother participation in global events hosted on Indian soil.

“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 ministry stated.

“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 added.

ALSO READ: Not Benglauru's Chinnaswamy Stadium, this venue to host IPL 2026 final

India's stance ahead of Commonwealth, Olympics bid, Asian Games

The current policy was first articulated in August 2025 following a period of heightened national tension. Public outcry had erupted over India’s participation in the cricket Asia Cup in the UAE, where they faced Pakistan just months after the tragic Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives. In response to the sentiment at the time, the Sports Ministry established that while it would not interfere with multilateral engagements, a firm line would be drawn against competing if the host country itself was Pakistan.

This strategic framework is essential to India’s long-term ambitions on the global stage. As the nation actively pursues hosting rights for the 2030 Commonwealth Games and the 2036 Olympics, the government is signaling its commitment to the Olympic Charter. By adopting a philosophy of inclusivity for international events, India aims to present itself as a welcoming and reliable host for the world's premier sporting competitions, balancing domestic security concerns with international obligations.

“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. 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.” Due protocol and courtesies, as per established practice, shall be extended to the Heads of International Sports Governing Bodies during their visits to India,” the ministry said.