Secularism in India has long been touted as a principle ensuring equal treatment of all religions. However, recent incidents suggest that its implementation is becoming increasingly skewed, often working against the interests of the Hindu majority. What was once a concern limited to specific pockets—such as Muslim-dominated areas of Hyderabad or the sensitive region of Jammu and Kashmir—now appears to be a nationwide phenomenon, cutting across both Congress-ruled and BJP-governed states.
A striking example emerged from Karimnagar, Telangana, where police reportedly prevented cricket fans from celebrating India’s victory over New Zealand in the 2025 ICC Championship in Dubai. The BJP MP from the region, Union Minister Bandi Sanjay, raised concerns over the rationale behind such restrictions. If true, this incident reflects a disturbing trend—one where even national sporting triumphs are viewed through a communal lens. The state’s Chief Minister, Revanth Reddy, must address such issues decisively to prevent further erosion of public trust in governance.
This raises a fundamental question: Why would India’s victory over New Zealand be considered a communal flashpoint? While one might understand tensions surrounding an India-Pakistan match—given the complex historical and emotional baggage—there is no logical reason for authorities to stifle celebrations against an unrelated team. When patriotic expressions are curbed, it inevitably fuels resentment and sparks the rhetorical question: Are we living in India or Pakistan?
The problem is not confined to Telangana alone. In BJP-ruled Madhya Pradesh, reports surfaced of communal disturbances, including stone-pelting near places of worship. These instances suggest that religious friction is not exclusive to any one political party’s rule but rather a broader issue that transcends state boundaries.
Beyond administrative overreach, a more insidious pattern has emerged—political figures and media personalities attempting to sow discord within the Indian cricket team itself. As India bounced back from a series of defeats to claim the ICC Champions Trophy, a section of the political and media establishment appeared unsettled. Some voices within the Congress, including spokesperson Dr. Shama Mohammad, selectively praised certain players like Virat Kohli while subtly undermining captain Rohit Sharma.
Criticism of Sharma extended beyond his on-field strategies to personal attacks, including jibes about his appearance. Such comments not only demean the sport but also expose an unhealthy attempt to create rifts within the team. More troubling was the fact that members of Congress’s ally, the Trinamool Congress, seemed to endorse this divisive rhetoric. The attempt to drive a wedge between players is not only disrespectful but also counterproductive, considering the team’s collective success.
Despite the noise, Rohit Sharma let his bat do the talking. Time and again, he provided strong starts, setting the foundation for India’s victories. In the final, with India struggling at 96 for 4, his composed 76 off 83 balls proved crucial in steering the team towards triumph. Any doubts about his leadership were further dispelled by teammates’ unwavering support. Young opener Shubman Gill publicly backed Sharma, dismissing any speculation of discord within the squad.
Post-victory, Rohit Sharma also silenced speculation about his retirement, urging the media not to spread misinformation. His statement was reinforced by none other than Virat Kohli, who asserted that the current team under Sharma’s leadership is prepared to take on any challenge for years to come. Such endorsements from stalwarts like Kohli are a testament to the unity and strength of the squad.
The victory also vindicated head coach Gautam Gambhir, who faced criticism following India’s pre-tournament losses to New Zealand and Australia. His decision to recall seasoned players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ajay Jadeja—despite their prior retirement from ODIs and T20s—proved to be a masterstroke. The move paid rich dividends, silencing skeptics who doubted the wisdom of bringing back experienced players for a major tournament.
Looking ahead, one intriguing question remains: Will Gambhir take another bold risk by persuading the BCCI to reinstate these veterans for next year’s T20 World Cup? While Suryakumar Yadav’s squad of promising youngsters shows great potential, the undeniable impact of seasoned players like Rohit and Kohli, besides Ajay Jadeja raises the possibility of a strategic blend of youth and experience.
India’s cricketing success should be a unifying force, not a cause for division. The growing tendency to politicize sports, coupled with arbitrary restrictions on celebrations, threatens to undermine the spirit of national unity. If secularism is to retain its true meaning, it must apply fairly across all communities, without penalizing expressions of national pride. The nation must ensure that its governance and public discourse do not succumb to divisive narratives, but rather foster an environment where patriotism and sportsmanship are celebrated without fear or prejudice.
