Why Did BJP Applaud India's Decision to Boycott PCB Chief's Trophy?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Team India refused to accept the Asia Cup trophy from the PCB Chief due to his political affiliations.
- The incident triggered significant political reactions from both the BJP and Congress.
- Social media played a crucial role in amplifying the incident, with the hashtag #TrophyChor trending.
- The event underscores the complex relationship between sports and politics in India.
- Public sentiment is divided, reflecting the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan.
New Delhi, Sep 29 (NationPress) The political ramifications of Team India’s decision to decline the Asia Cup 2025 trophy from Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi have escalated, with the BJP applauding the action while the Congress has labeled it a misjudgment by the government.
After India triumphed in the Asia Cup final, an unexpected situation arose during the post-match celebration. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi was anticipated to present the trophy and medals to the Indian team. However, Suryakumar Yadav and his teammates chose not to accept the awards from Naqvi, reportedly due to his political affiliations, as he is also a Minister in the Pakistani government.
This refusal led to confusion, interrupting the ceremony. Naqvi, clearly irritated, departed the stage with the trophy and medals in hand. A video capturing the moment quickly gained traction on social media, with the hashtag #TrophyChor trending and igniting discussions across various political spectrums.
In response to the incident, BJP leader Dinesh Sharma remarked to IANS, “This victory is a point of pride for us. Pakistan consistently loses to India, yet even in defeat, they pretend to come out on top. Naqvi's exit with the trophy reflects their persistent disregard for protocols. When relations between two nations are tense, a neutral party should present the trophy. It was inappropriate for the PCB chief to do so.”
Another BJP leader, Agnimitra Paul, stated, “India will perpetually ensure Pakistan's defeat, both in sports and beyond. The captain’s actions send a strong message. However, it's disheartening to see the silence from the INDIA Bloc. No congratulatory remarks from Mamata Banerjee, Rahul Gandhi, or Priyanka Gandhi. Had India lost, they would have been swift to criticize.”
In contrast, Congress spokesperson Surendra Rajput criticized the government's approach to the incident.
“First and foremost, congratulations to Team India. However, the BJP has once again displayed its double standards. While 'Operation Sindoor' is still underway, they permitted the team to compete against Pakistan. If they won, the trophy should have been returned home. This is the BJP's second erroneous decision,” he remarked to IANS.
Footage shared online showed Naqvi waiting on stage before being informed of the team's refusal. Following a brief discussion with officials, he was seen leaving with the trophy, which was subsequently retrieved by another event official.