Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decision to congratulate India’s women’s hockey team for their silver medal in the Asia Cup and Indian boxers Minakshi and Jasmine Lamboriya for their victories in the World Boxing Championship, while staying silent on the Indian cricket team’s win over Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025, has sparked curiosity.
The cricket match, played at the Dubai International Stadium, saw India defeat Pakistan by seven wickets, but was overshadowed by massive public outrage due to the recent Pahalgam terrorist attack that claimed 26 innocent lives.
Given the massive criticism from the political fraternity and public outrage over the decision to play Pakistan so soon after the terrorist attack, PM Modi might have chosen to distance himself from the match to avoid fueling further controversy.
It’s possible that PM Modi was waiting for India to lift the Asia Cup trophy before congratulating the team, rather than acknowledging a mid-tournament win.
The PM might have been mindful of the sensitive nature of the Pahalgam attack and the emotions surrounding it, choosing not to add to the already polarized debate.
On the same day, PM Modi took to social media to praise India’s women’s hockey team for their silver medal in the Asia Cup 2025, highlighting their determination and team spirit. He also congratulated Indian boxers Minakshi and Jaismine Lamboriya for their victories in the World Boxing Championship in the 48 and 57 Kg weight categories. This gesture suggests that the PM does value and acknowledge India’s sporting achievements, making his silence on the cricket team’s win over Pakistan all the more notable.