The Supreme Court has dismissed a petition seeking to cancel the cricket match between India and Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025. The petitioners claimed that the match goes against national dignity and the sentiments of the families of martyrs.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thursday refused to hear a petition that demanded the cancellation of the cricket match between India and Pakistan in the Asia Cup, scheduled for September 14. A lawyer had requested an urgent hearing before a bench comprising Justices J. K. Maheshwari and Vijay Bishnoi.
However, the bench commented on the petition, stating, "What is the hurry? It's just a match, let it happen. The match is this Sunday, what can be done now?" Thus, the Supreme Court did not accept the petitioner's demand and refused to hear the case.
Supreme Court's Decision
On Thursday, the petitioner sought an immediate hearing before a bench of Justices J. K. Maheshwari and Vijay Bishnoi. The bench remarked, "What is the hurry? It is a match. Let it happen. The match is this Sunday, what can be done?" Thus, the court refused to grant an urgent hearing on the petition and made it clear that the sporting event should proceed as per the scheduled program.
Arguments of the Petitioners
This public interest litigation was led by Urvashi Jain and three other law students. They stated that playing a match against Pakistan following the Pahalgam terrorist attack and Operation Sindoor sends a message contrary to the country's dignity and public sentiments. The petitioners also contended that the purpose of cricket between nations is to promote harmony and friendship.
However, in the current situation, when our soldiers have sacrificed their lives during terrorist attacks and operations in Kashmir, organizing a game with Pakistan sends a contradictory message. They argued that while our soldiers are being martyred, we are celebrating a game with the very country that harbors terrorists.
The petition also stated that holding this match could hurt the sentiments of the families of the martyrs. The petitioners believe that the dignity of the nation and the safety of its citizens come before entertainment and sports.
