'Fighting Terror Yet Allowing Pakistan in Hockey Asia Cup': Aaditya Thackeray Targets Centre

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray on Friday launched a sharp attack on the central government, questioning its decision to allegedly allow Pakistan’s hockey team to participate in the upcoming Hockey Asia Cup, scheduled to be held in Rajgir, Bihar, from August 29 to September 7.

Speaking to reporters, Thackeray said, "On one hand, India is combating Pakistan’s terror ideology, and on the other, the Centre has given a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for Pakistan to play hockey in our country. What kind of diplomacy is this?" He warned that such actions could soon extend to cricket, claiming that the BCCI might also clear Pakistan’s participation in the Cricket Asia Cup, which is expected to take place in the UAE.

He further criticised the BJP-led government for failing to bring the perpetrators of the Pahalgam terror attack to justice. “Where are those responsible for the Pahalgam attack? The NIA reportedly had sketches, but no arrests have been made. The Centre owes the nation an explanation,” Thackeray said.

Thackeray also slammed India’s foreign policy following Operation Sindoor, accusing the government of prioritising diplomatic photo-ops over national security. “After the operation, BJP leaders went globe-trotting, meeting world leaders, but what has it achieved? Pakistan still secured the chairmanship of the United Nations Security Council and continues to receive funds from the Asian Development Bank, the World Bank and the IMF,” he claimed.

He accused the government of failing on both diplomatic and security fronts, questioning the role of the External Affairs Minister in safeguarding India’s interests.

Thackeray's comments come amid reports that Pakistan has been granted permission to participate in the Hockey Asia Cup in India, although official confirmation is still awaited. According to the Hockey India website, the tournament will be hosted in Rajgir, Bihar.

The political controversy has now sparked fresh debate over whether sporting ties with Pakistan should continue, especially in the backdrop of ongoing tensions at the border and unresolved terror attacks.