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In the ongoing Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow, Indian players can decide for themselves whether they want to join hands with Pakistani players or not. If the player wishes, he can talk to them. But they will not be allowed to accept any kind of gift or present from Pakistani players. Actually, this decision has been taken when this time in Glasgow, zone-based living arrangements have been made instead of the traditional athletes village.
 
Most of the players from India and Pakistan are staying in the same hotel. In such a situation, it is natural for the players of both the countries to come face to face and talk. Players from both the countries will also meet each other during the games.

Can’t take gifts from Pak players

According to a report in Times of India, Indian sports officials in Glasgow had discussed the issue in internal talks with the players’ contingent. Under this, taking gifts from Pakistani players has been clearly banned. On the other hand, the decision to shake hands and talk to Pakistani players has been left to the players’ own understanding and in some cases the advice of the National Sports Federation (NSF) associated with them. However, till now no formal instructions have been issued by the authorities in this matter.

Neeraj Chopra and Arshad are staying in the same hotel

India’s star javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra and Pakistan’s current Commonwealth Games (CWG) champion Arshad Nadeem are staying in the same hotel in Glasgow’s Zone-3 ahead of their competition. In such a situation, it is considered natural for the two players to meet or have a normal conversation. According to media reports, the National Sports Federation (NSF) of different sports has given different advice to the players in this regard. According to the information received, Lawn Bowls officials have told the Indian players that there is no problem in shaking hands, high-five or normal conversation with Pakistani players. Some other NSFs have also given similar advice to the players.

India’s old stance on sports with Pakistan

India’s approach to sports with Pakistan has long distinguished between bilateral competitions and multi-national events. While bilateral sporting relations are still on hold, players from both countries continue to play against each other in international multi-sport events. In cricket, in recent years Indian and Pakistani players have distanced themselves from the tradition of shaking hands before and after matches. In contrast, the junior hockey teams of the two countries high-fived each other after the Sultan of Johor Cup match.