Abhishek Kaushik Comments on Visa Denial for Pakistan and Bangladesh Teams

Abhishek Kaushik, President of the Amateur Soft Tennis Association UP, addressed the visa denial for Pakistan and Bangladesh teams ahead of the ISTC and South Asian Soft Tennis Championship, emphasizing that terrorism and sports do not coexist. He expressed confidence in India’s performance and praised PM Modi’s contributions to sports. The tournaments are set to feature 150 athletes from twelve countries at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida, scheduled for March 17-22, 2025.

Abhishek Kaushik, President of the Amateur Soft Tennis Association in Uttar Pradesh, expressed a firm stance regarding the visa denial of the Pakistan and Bangladesh teams ahead of the India International Soft Tennis Championship (ISTC) and the South Asian Soft Tennis Championship in 2025. He stated that such decisions are the prerogative of the Indian government and reiterated that terrorism and sports are incompatible, affirming, “We do not support terrorism, and sports cannot go together.”

The tournaments are scheduled to take place from March 17 to 22, 2025, at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida and have attracted approximately 150 athletes from twelve different countries, including Iran, Cambodia, Japan, and Thailand. Kaushik expressed confidence in India’s ability to defend its title, saying, “India is the winner of the last medal in the India International Soft Tennis, and this time, we are confident we will win a medal.”

He highlighted the importance of the event, noting the strong participation from international players, stating that the only exceptions to attendance were the Pakistan and Bangladesh teams. Kaushik confirmed, “All the overseas players from different parts of the world are pleased, and the authorities have greatly helped us.”

Further, Kaushik praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his proactive support of sports, referencing initiatives like the Fit India movement. He mentioned how Modi’s engagement with athletes before and after competitions elevates excitement and fosters a richer sports culture. He added, “When our PM stands shoulder to shoulder with players, the excitement among players and federations will rise.”

In summary, Abhishek Kaushik emphasizes the incompatibility of terrorism and sports in light of the visa denial for Pakistan and Bangladesh teams, commending the Indian government’s decision. He celebrates India’s previous success in the ISTC and the positive international reception of the upcoming tournaments while acknowledging the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in elevating the sports culture in India. The events are set to showcase the talent of athletes from various nations, reaffirming the commitment to a safe and competitive sporting environment.

Original Source: www.tribuneindia.com