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PTC Web Desk: The Indian government has revised its policy on sports relations with Pakistan. According to the new guidelines, Indian athletes and teams can take part in international tournaments where Pakistan is also participating. However, India will not take part in any competitions held in Pakistan and will also avoid bilateral matches with Pakistani teams.

At the same time, the government has decided to simplify the visa process for sportspersons, team officials, technical staff, and members of international sports governing bodies. These visas will be issued for up to five years to make travel easier for them, a source in the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) confirmed on Thursday.

This announcement comes as debates continue over India playing Pakistan in the upcoming Asia Cup scheduled for September 14 in Dubai. The strong reaction stems from the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 tourists were killed by Pakistan-backed terrorists. In response, India launched “Operation Sindoor” on May 7, targeting terror networks across the Line of Control and inside Pakistan, further straining ties between the two countries.

Clarifying India’s stand, MYAS said the country’s sports policy mirrors its overall foreign policy approach towards Pakistan. It stressed that there will be no bilateral sports competitions either in India or Pakistan. But Indian athletes will still play against Pakistani players in multilateral tournaments, whether hosted abroad or in India, in line with international sporting practices.

Highlighting India’s growing reputation as a trusted host for global sporting events, MYAS added that Pakistani players can also compete in such multinational tournaments organised in India. To support this, the government will streamline the visa process for international athletes and officials. Multi-entry visas will be issued on a priority basis for the duration of their official terms, up to five years, to ensure smooth participation.

The ministry also said that heads of international sports bodies visiting India will receive full protocol and courtesies, as per established practice.