Has the Indo-Pak cricket match 'exposed' the Centre and Shiv Sena (UBT)?
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Synopsis
In a bold critique, the Shiv Sena (UBT) challenges the BJP-led Union government over the recent India-Pakistan cricket match in Dubai, alleging it has revealed their true colors on patriotism and support for terrorism. The editorial raises significant concerns about the implications of such matches amidst ongoing tensions.
Key Takeaways
- Shiv Sena (UBT) criticizes the Union government.
- Claims of financial support to terrorism.
- Concerns over patriotism in sports.
- Reactions from notable figures.
- Potential implications for India-Pakistan relations.
Mumbai, Sep 16 (NationPress) The Shiv Sena (UBT) criticized the BJP-led Union government on Tuesday, asserting that the India-Pakistan cricket match in Dubai has revealed its patriotism, Hindutva, and hypocrisy. In the party's official publication, 'Saamana', the Thackeray faction accused the Union government of openly supporting and providing financial aid to terrorists via this cricket event.
They emphasized that every Indian citizen should denounce this act.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) claimed that the Pakistan Cricket Board garnered at least Rs 1,000 crore from the Dubai match, with an estimated Rs 50,000 crore in betting profits going to gambling operators in Pakistan, alleging that the Union government has empowered those who incite terrorism in India.
Highlighting the opposition faced by Diljit Dosanjh's film due to the inclusion of a Pakistani actress, the Thackeray camp questioned how a cricket match with Pakistan during the Asia Cup in Dubai was permitted, given that the Pakistan Cricket Board raked in billions in a single day.
The editorial noted that patriotic individuals turned off their televisions as soon as the match commenced.
It quoted cricketer Sunil Gavaskar stating, “The central government has chosen to play cricket with Pakistan. The Board of Control for Cricket in India and the cricketers will have to accept it.”
The editorial also referenced actor Nana Patekar’s opposition to the match, saying, “The blood of my people was shed. Why should I engage with those who caused it?”
Intensifying their critique, Shiv Sena (UBT) contended that the government facilitated the cricket match with Pakistan because Jay Shah is the president of the International Cricket Council.
It targeted Union Home Minister Amit Shah's son, Jay Shah, who was affiliated with the BCCI for five years starting in 2019, claiming he is “in the business to generate profit, not out of patriotism.”
Point of View
It is vital to observe that while the Shiv Sena (UBT) raises significant concerns regarding patriotism and the implications of international sports events, the broader context of India-Pakistan relations must be considered. Engaging in dialogue through sports can serve as a platform for reconciliation, yet it is imperative to remain vigilant against any undercurrents of support for terrorism.
NationPress
03/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Shiv Sena (UBT) say about the cricket match?
Shiv Sena (UBT) criticized the Union government for allegedly supporting terrorism through the India-Pakistan cricket match and claimed it undermined true patriotism.
How much money did the Pakistan Cricket Board make from the match?
The Shiv Sena (UBT) claimed that the Pakistan Cricket Board earned at least Rs 1,000 crore from the Dubai match.
What is the stance of Sunil Gavaskar on the cricket match?
Sunil Gavaskar stated that the central government has decided to engage in cricket with Pakistan, which the Board of Control for Cricket in India and the players must accept.
Why did some actors oppose the match?
Actors like Nana Patekar opposed the match, citing concerns over the bloodshed suffered by their people and questioning the appropriateness of playing with Pakistan.
What are the implications of this cricket match?
The match raises questions about the relationship between sports and national sentiment, particularly amidst ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan.
