New Delhi, Oct 1 (NationPress) The iconic cricketer Kapil Dev has found himself embroiled in a significant controversy, facing severe backlash from various sectors after his comments regarding the Asia Cup trophy dispute. He urged Team India to overlook their differences with Pakistan and emphasize the essence of sportsmanship.

By advocating for India to “move on” from the ongoing political and security issues with Pakistan, the 1983 World Cup-winning captain sparked outrage, with many on social media and public figures labeling him as “out of touch,” “anti-Indian,” and a “loose cannon” who has lost his standing among the populace.

In a recent interview, Kapil minimized the significance of the team’s refusal to shake hands with the Pakistan Cricket Board chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, or to accept the trophy from him. “I believe that when they (Team India) didn’t shake hands, it was acceptable. Shaking hands isn't a major issue… You cannot dwell on such matters. You must move forward. Allow the government to handle that. Let politicians do their job. Our role was to make a mark or create an impact, which I believe the Indian team achieved – not just once but thrice,” Kapil stated.

However, his remarks struck a nerve. Many critics felt the former cricketer's “preachy neutrality” disregarded the decades of violence India has faced due to terrorism supported by Pakistan.

Lieutenant General Kanwal Jeet Singh Dhillon (Retd) criticized Kapil for his “soft stance” towards Pakistan. “I completely disagree with Kapil Dev, with utmost respect. This neighbor is a terrorist state, and its terrorists are harming our civilians and soldiers. Let's keep them where they belong – down there. Period. Jai Hind,” he expressed on X.

Lieutenant General Devendra Pratap Pandey (Retd) went further, accusing Kapil of being detached from reality. “@therealkapildev is living in la la land,” he tweeted, blaming such perspectives for protecting the younger generation from harsh realities, leaving them susceptible to radicalization.

Venture capitalist and political analyst Tehseen Poonawala was particularly harsh, reminding Kapil that Pakistani terrorists would not spare even him. “With respect, Kapil Dev ji… on April 22, if you had been in Pahalgam, the Pakistani terrorists would have targeted you based on your name. Sorry, sir, INDIA does not conduct terror attacks in Pakistan. Please abandon this notion of communicating with Pakistan! They aim to NUKE us!!”

Advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai did not hold back either, dismissing Kapil as an “irrelevant has-been” spewing “anti-national rhetoric.” He stated, “The unfortunate truth is that Kapil Dev has become an irrelevant has-been, whose discomfort with the new system is merely a rejection of Indian pride under Modi’s India. Kapil can take his views and go to hell – or Pakistan – whatever he prefers.”

The uproar has resonated strongly among the general public online, with thousands branding him a “loose cannon” who no longer embodies Indian sentiment. “We anticipated him to uphold national dignity, not sound like a sympathizer of Pakistan,” one user remarked, reflecting the prevailing sentiment.

Kapil Dev, currently serving as the president of the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI), is also an ambassador for various brands. Critics are questioning whether he should retain these positions after “disrespecting the sacrifices of Indian soldiers and civilians” with his statements. His reputation, once synonymous with national pride and resilience, has suffered a serious blow, and mounting pressure is on him to apologize or face repercussions.

Whether Kapil will maintain his controversial opinion or seek damage control remains to be seen. However, one fact is evident: his statements have dramatically affected his public image, leaving many to ponder if India's once-adored cricket icon has morphed into an unpredictable liability – a genuine “loose cannon.”