The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has banned all sports federations from participating in any events in India and has mandated that all national sports federations must obtain prior approval before committing to any sporting events. The decision, announced following the PSB’s 34th board meeting on July 23, cites ongoing security concerns as the primary reason.

A circular issued by the PSB explicitly states that no federation can commit to or agree to participate in events in India without prior PSB permission. This directive comes amid ongoing debate regarding Pakistan’s participation in the Men’s Asia Cup Hockey tournament, scheduled for August and September in India.

Recent media reports indicated that Pakistan might not participate in the tournament due to security concerns, potentially jeopardizing their qualification for next year’s World Cup. A source within the sports ministry, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that Pakistan would also not participate in the Junior World Cup in India in November. These decisions follow a four-day conflict between India and Pakistan in May, which resulted in significant loss of life.

Earlier this year, Pakistan hockey captain Imad Shakeel Butt also called for the Asia Cup’s relocation, citing escalating tensions between the two countries. The Asia Cup is a crucial qualifying event for the World Cup. The PSB’s new policy reflects the heightened security concerns following the recent conflict between the nuclear-armed neighbours.