Abhishek Kaushik, President of the Amateur Soft Tennis Association UP, comments on the Indian government’s visa denial to Pakistan and Bangladesh teams, linking it to terrorism. He expresses confidence in India’s performance in the ongoing soft tennis championships. Kaushik further praises PM Narendra Modi’s role in promoting sports, enhancing athlete engagement and support.
Abhishek Kaushik, President of the Amateur Soft Tennis Association in Uttar Pradesh, expressed his view on the Indian government’s decision to deny visas to the Pakistan and Bangladesh teams. He stated, “Terrorism and sports can’t go together,” emphasizing that this stance is necessary considering the incidents occurring in these countries. The second India International Soft Tennis Championship and the first South Asian Soft Tennis Championship are underway at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida from March 17 to 22, 2025, attracting around 150 athletes from 12 nations, excluding Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Kaushik affirmed the focus on both championships and expressed confidence in India’s potential for success, noting that the nation won the last ISTC medal. He assures that the athletes are eager to compete, mentioning the positive organization of the event that welcomed participants from Hungary, Chile, the Czech Republic, Japan, Thailand, and Korea, except for Pakistan and Bangladesh. Kaushik remarked, “All the overseas players from different parts of the world are pleased. All the facilities are there, and authorities have greatly helped us.”
Furthermore, he commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to sports development in India, highlighting initiatives like the Fit India movement. Kaushik appreciated the Prime Minister’s engagement with athletes, stating, “When our PM stands shoulder to shoulder with players, the excitement among players and federations will rise,” reinforcing the supportive environment created for sports in the country.
In summary, Abhishek Kaushik underscores the Indian government’s decision to deny visas to the Pakistan and Bangladesh teams in light of terrorism concerns. With the ongoing India International Soft Tennis Championship and South Asian Soft Tennis Championship, he exhibits confidence in India’s athletic capabilities while praising the government’s efforts to promote sports. Kaushik’s remarks reflect the emphasis on security and support for athletes as pivotal for the success of sporting events in India.
Original Source: www.tribuneindia.com
