Chandigarh: As cricket fans gear up for the much-anticipated India vs Pakistan showdown in the ongoing Asia Cup 2025, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has sparked debate by questioning the broader implications of holding such high-profile sporting events with Pakistan, especially in light of unresolved tensions and past terrorist attacks. (India vs Pakistan)
The match is slated to take place on Saturday, September 14 at 8:00 PM (IST), a fixture that usually unites fans across borders but has also reignited political discourse.
Speaking after a press briefing, CM Bhagwant Mann expressed concern over what he described as “selective memory” when it comes to national sentiment. He pointed out that while entertainment content often faces boycotts or criticism for perceived insensitivity, sports, particularly cricket, seem to escape the same level of scrutiny — even when the opponent is Pakistan. (India vs Pakistan)
“When there’s a cricket match, people suddenly forget about tragedies like the Pahalgam or Pulwama attacks,” Mann said. “But when it’s a film like Diljit Dosanjh’s, everyone becomes hyper-aware and starts questioning nationalism.”
His remarks referred to ongoing criticism of Punjabi actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh, whose work has at times been caught in controversy for allegedly hurting national sentiment — a contrast Mann believes reveals societal double standards.
Match to Go Ahead as Scheduled
Despite the political undertone, the India vs Pakistan encounter remains scheduled as planned and is expected to draw massive TV and digital viewership. The match is not only a highlight of the Asia Cup but also a potential prelude to future clashes in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
