Should PM Modi Explain How Blood and Cricket Intersect?
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Synopsis
Uddhav Thackeray criticizes the BJP government for allowing the India-Pakistan cricket match, questioning the implications on national pride. He calls for a protest and emphasizes the importance of taking a stand against terrorism, underscoring Shiv Sena's historical stance against relations with Pakistan.
Key Takeaways
- Uddhav Thackeray's critique of the BJP-led government raises questions about national integrity.
- The upcoming cricket match is seen as a potential conflict with India's stance on terrorism.
- The Shiv Sena-UBT plans a protest to oppose the match.
- Thackeray invokes historical figures to support his position.
- The debate highlights the intersection of sports, politics, and national pride.
Mumbai, Sep 13 (NationPress) Uddhav Thackeray, the Chief of Shiv Sena-UBT and former Chief Minister of Maharashtra, expressed his discontent on Saturday with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led central government for permitting the upcoming India-Pakistan cricket match scheduled in Abu Dhabi this Sunday.
"Prime Minister Narendra Modi has often stated that blood and water do not mix. So, where does cricket fit into this narrative? Does this imply that we have ceased hostilities with Pakistan? What will Defence Minister Rajnath Singh say in response to this?" he questioned.
"What could not be achieved by sending delegations of MPs globally post the Pahalgam terror attack could have been demonstrated through a boycott of this match to signify our stance against terrorism. Pakistan is a nation that endorses terrorism, and until it halts its terrorist actions, we must not have any ties, much less share resources. This was the principle upheld by Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray," Thackeray added.
He further inquired, "Is the trade and profit derived from a cricket match more significant than the nation's honor?"
In response to BJP's claims surrounding a meeting between former Pakistani cricketer Javed Miandad and Balasaheb Thackeray, he remarked, "Are BJP leaders questioning Balasaheb's loyalty to the nation? Those who doubt Balasaheb's patriotism should reflect on their own worthiness. Balasaheb did not visit anyone's home; Javed Miandad came to see him, and Balasaheb made it clear that there would be no match between India and Pakistan."
Thackeray reminisced about the late BJP leader Sushma Swaraj, who was the Foreign Minister at the time, stating that she was against the India-Pakistan cricket match.
"Back then, S. Jaishankar was her Foreign Secretary. Now he is the Foreign Minister," he mocked.
He announced that the Shiv Sena-UBT women's wing will conduct a protest entitled "Sindoor Raksha" (My Kumkum, My Country) on Sunday.
"The India-Pakistan cricket match is set for Sunday evening, but at 11 a.m., activists from the women's wing will gather in every square to place vermilion in a box, which we will send to PM Modi. Each household will contribute vermilion to PM Modi. Now is the moment. I urge the citizens to convey to PM Modi that this match must not take place," he emphasized.
Point of View
Uddhav Thackeray's remarks reflect a significant sentiment regarding national pride and relations with Pakistan, indicating a broader debate on how sports and politics intertwine. The Shiv Sena-UBT's proactive stance invites public engagement on issues of national security and integrity, emphasizing the importance of standing firm against terrorism.
NationPress
14/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Uddhav Thackeray's stance on the cricket match?
Uddhav Thackeray opposes the India-Pakistan cricket match, viewing it as a contradiction to India's stance against terrorism.
What protest is planned by Shiv Sena-UBT?
The Shiv Sena-UBT women's wing plans to hold a protest called 'Sindoor Raksha' to convey their message against the cricket match.
How does Thackeray connect cricket to national pride?
Thackeray argues that participating in a cricket match with Pakistan undermines national pride and is against the principles established by Balasaheb Thackeray.
What was Sushma Swaraj's position on India-Pakistan matches?
Sushma Swaraj was against the India-Pakistan cricket match, emphasizing her commitment to national security.
What historical context does Thackeray provide?
Thackeray references past actions and sentiments from Balasaheb Thackeray and Sushma Swaraj to highlight the longstanding opposition to relations with Pakistan.
