The cricket world breathes easier as the boycott on India-Pakistan matches is lifted, a move applauded by Congress stalwart Bhai Jagtap as a prudent and timely decision.
In an IANS interview from Mumbai, the leader drew a firm line between politics and play. ‘Sports, culture, and music must remain apolitical—a principle I’ve upheld through my political career,’ Jagtap stated. He recalled advocating for matches despite Pakistan’s past standoffishness, whose reasons he couldn’t fathom. ‘ICC chief Jay Shah has masterfully navigated this hurdle. History shows no World Cup abandoned mid-way by any team. This fixture’s return is cause for joy,’ he enthused.
Shifting to UP CM Yogi Adityanath’s comments, Jagtap opted for restraint. ‘I’m not privy to the specifics—it’s a delicate matter, so no remarks from me,’ he clarified.
On RSS leader Mohan Bhagwat’s push for Veer Savarkar’s Bharat Ratna, Jagtap highlighted the award’s prestige. ‘It belongs to our 1.4 billion citizens. Recipients have sacrificed everything for India. Savarkar’s controversies are public record. Bhagwat’s knowledge exceeds mine on this,’ he noted diplomatically.
Regarding Salman Khan at an RSS function and Minister Nitesh Rane’s barbs, Jagtap championed cultural icons. ‘Be it Bollywood stars like Salman or Shah Rukh, they embody India’s glory. Politicizing them is unwarranted—those criticizing know the apt retorts,’ he said, advocating for inclusivity in national discourse.