MS Shanker
As the Indian Premier League 2025 hurtles toward its high-voltage knockout phase, the nation finds itself caught in a different kind of tension — one not on the cricket field, but across its western borders. In a bold pre-emptive strike, Indian security forces have reportedly targeted terror camps deep inside Pakistani territory, sending a clear message against cross-border terrorism.
In response, Pakistan has issued warnings of possible retaliation, prompting the Union Home Ministry to ramp up national security measures. These include mock drills, blackouts, increased surveillance, and even an appeal to all paramilitary forces — including CRPF, ITBP, and BSF personnel — who are currently on leave to report back to duty. If that doesn’t convey the gravity of the situation, what does?
Given this rapidly evolving situation, it is time for the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the IPL Governing Council to consider the larger picture. The IPL may be a source of national entertainment, pride, and economic activity — but can the country afford to host large public events when war clouds loom large?
Matches scheduled in or near border states such as Punjab, Rajasthan, or even Delhi carry heightened risk. A single miscalculated act by hostile forces could turn a packed stadium into a soft target, with devastating consequences. The Home Ministry’s precautionary drills are not routine exercises — they are red flags. And ignoring them could amount to national negligence.
While cricket is often called a religion in India, now is the time for responsible decision-making beyond commercial compulsions. The safety of citizens, players, and officials must come first. This is not a call for panic — but a call for prudence.
As a responsible media house, this e-paper — acting on a request from a senior and retired sports journalist — makes a heartfelt appeal to the BCCI and IPL leadership to immediately convene an emergency meeting and seriously consider postponing the remaining fixtures and final of IPL 2025. This recommendation is not made lightly; it stems from the belief that the spirit of sport must go hand-in-hand with national responsibility.
This appeal is not without precedent. The IPL has in the past been shifted or rescheduled due to security concerns — including during general elections or after terrorist attacks. In 2009, the entire tournament was moved to South Africa owing to logistical and security challenges during the Lok Sabha polls. If the BCCI could act then, why not now, when national stakes are even higher?
At a time when Indian forces are defending the nation’s dignity beyond the border, every institution — including cricket — must rally behind the tricolour. A brief pause in play now may actually enhance the IPL’s credibility and goodwill in the eyes of the nation.
This e-paper, as a responsible media platform, urges IPL and BCCI officials to rise above business interests and make the difficult but right call: put the remainder of IPL 2025 on hold until the national atmosphere stabilises. The country will celebrate cricket again — but only when it is safe to cheer.
