New Delhi: India has refused permission to five Pakistani diplomats to travel to Kolkata to watch a World T20 cricket match on Wednesday for alleged “ISI and defence” links. The ISI and Pakistan’s military establishment are suspected of collusion with Pakistan-based militant groups in masterminding the Pathankot attack on January 2.
The external affairs ministry had recently stated: “The High Commissioner of Pakistan met the Home Secretary in connection with the forthcoming ICC World T20 tournament in India. The discussions were positive. The Home Secretary conveyed to the High Commissioner of Pakistan that all necessary arrangements are being made for all participating countries, as appropriate, including for the security of all the participants concerned. The Home Secretary reiterated that as in the past all participants will be looked after and there is no cause for concern.” After this, Islamabad had confirmed its participation.
The MEA had earlier expressed confidence that the coming T20 World Cup would be a resounding success. “I would like to draw your attention to the fact that all necessary arrangements, including those for security, have been made in the past for all international sporting events organised in India,” the MEA had said.
