• Source:JND
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Ind-vs-Pak Asia Cup 2025: The much-anticipated Asia Cup 2025 clash between India and Pakistan will take place in Dubai amid tight security measures, as political and security concerns continue to prevent Pakistan from hosting world cricket safely. The April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, in which Pakistan-sponsored militants killed 26 Indian tourists, has intensified calls for a boycott of the fixture, raising fresh questions about whether sporting ties can be separated from national security concerns.

Terror Attack Fallout

The Pahalgam attack has left deep scars on public sentiment in India. Victims’ families, political leaders, and civil society groups have urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to reconsider participation. Aishanya Dwivedi, the widow of one of the victims, has openly criticised the insensitivity of scheduling the match, accusing cricket authorities of ignoring the sacrifices of Indian soldiers and civilians.

With India and Pakistan set to face off at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, authorities in the United Arab Emirates have unveiled a robust plan. Dubai Police confirmed that specialised units will monitor the venue, spectators, and teams. Major General Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Events Security Committee, warned that any breach of safety or disorderly conduct will invite strict legal penalties, including imprisonment and fines. The authorities have asked the spectators to reach the venue three hours prior, bring legitimate tickets, and refrain from prohibited items like fireworks, big banners, and remote-controlled objects.

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Why Pakistan Can't Host World Cricket Safely

Pakistan has consistently failed to offer a safe arena for global matches despite its cricketing history. The reasons are structural and persistent:
• Terrorism Threats: Militancy and cross-border terrorism supported from within Pakistan still pose a serious threat to Indian players and spectators.
• History of Attacks on Sport: The 2009 Lahore attack on the Sri Lankan team still serves as a stark reminder of Pakistan's failure to ensure safety. Since then, most big countries have denied full tours.
• Volatile Geopolitical Environment: Frequent shootouts on the Line of Control (LoC) and increasing–tension make staging matches highly risky.
• Public Security Issues: Apart from the players, the safety of visitors, administrators, and residents continues to be at risk of violent disruptions.
• Global Isolation: Repeated failures to contain terrorist groups have eroded Pakistan's reputation with international sporting associations, and only neutral venues are now possible options.

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The Asia Cup 2025 showdown in Dubai highlights not only the passion surrounding India-Pakistan cricket but also the harsh reality: Pakistan remains unfit to host world cricket. Short of credibly distancing itself from terror groups and offering a long-term guarantee of stability, neutral venues will be the sole choice.