‘Bring me back my 16-year-old….’- Pahalgam attack survivor criticizes India-Pakistan Asia Cup match
Sawan Parmar, who lost his father and brother in the Pahalgam terror attack, expressed deep sorrow and frustration over the scheduled India-Pakistan Asia Cup clash, highlighting the emotional impact on victims’ families.
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The much-anticipated Asia Cup 2025 showdown between India and Pakistan, set for Sunday in Dubai, has already ignited strong emotions among cricket followers.
Many Indian fans have voiced outrage, urging the BCCI to withdraw from the tournament altogether. Their frustration stems from the recent Pahalgam terror attack in April, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians.
With tensions running high, the debate continues on whether cricketing ties should proceed amid such circumstances. For supporters calling for a boycott, the sentiment is clear — national security and respect for those affected should take precedence over sporting rivalries. Meanwhile, others argue the contest remains an important part of cricketing tradition.
Pahalgam attack victim voices anguish over upcoming India-Pakistan clash:
The Resistance Front, a group initially connected with Lashkar-e-Taiba and operating out of Pakistan, was the first to claim responsibility for the Pahalgam attack. However, it later withdrew its statement, denying any role in the incident. In retaliation, India launched Operation Sindoor, targeting terror infrastructure through missile strikes in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Pakistan responded with cross-border shelling and drone operations, heightening tensions along the border. The escalating hostilities eventually de-escalated when both nations agreed to a ceasefire on May 10, bringing temporary calm after weeks of military confrontation.
Sawan Parmar, who tragically lost both his father and brother in the terror attack, expressed deep pain and frustration over the upcoming India-Pakistan match. He questioned the timing of the fixture, highlighting how difficult it was for victims’ families to see cricket proceed despite such a devastating loss.
Speaking to ANI, Sawan Parmar said, “ When we got to know the India vs Pakistan match is being organised, we were very disturbed. No sort of connection should remain with Pakistan... If you want to play the match, bring me back my 16-year-old brother who was shot with so many bullets... Operation Sindoor seems to be a waste now.”
His mother, Kiran Yatish Parmar, raised concerns over Narendra Modi’s position, questioning how the government could support the high-profile clash while families of victims continued to grapple with their grief.
She said, “This match should not happen. I want to ask Prime Minister Modi, Operation Sindoor has not concluded so why is this India vs Pakistan match happening?... I want to tell everyone in the country to go and visit those families who have lost their loved ones in the Pahalgam terror attack and see how sad they are. Our wounds have not healed.”
Even with a nationwide campaign calling for a boycott of the India-Pakistan clash, the BCCI has stood firm on its decision, choosing not to cancel the scheduled encounter despite mounting public anger and emotional appeals.
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