Abhishek Kaushik, President of the Amateur Soft Tennis Association UP, welcomed the Indian government’s decision to deny visas for the Pakistan and Bangladesh teams, citing that terrorism and sports cannot coexist. He expressed confidence in India’s success at the upcoming ISTC and South Asian Soft Tennis Championship. The tournaments are set to attract participants from 12 countries, with only Pakistan and Bangladesh not attending. Kaushik also praised PM Modi’s contributions to sports in India.
Abhishek Kaushik, President of the Amateur Soft Tennis Association UP, commented on the visa denial for the Pakistan and Bangladesh teams in conjunction with the upcoming India International Soft Tennis Championship (ISTC) and South Asian Soft Tennis Championship 2025. He stated that while the decision belongs to the Indian government, he supports it entirely, emphasizing that terrorism cannot coexist with sports. The tournament, scheduled from March 17 to 22, 2025, at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida, has attracted around 150 athletes from 12 countries including Japan, Thailand, and Hungary.
Kaushik highlighted India’s success in the previous ISTC and expressed confidence in their continuing winning streak. He noted, “India is the winner of the last medal in India International Soft Tennis, and this time, we are confident we will win a medal.” He also mentioned plans for a World Championship in Korea, signifying India’s growing presence in international soft tennis.
Moreover, he praised the organization of tournaments, stating that players from 15 countries, such as Hungary, Chile, and the Czech Republic, were participating, with only Pakistan and Bangladesh absent. Kaushik remarked on the positive atmosphere at the event due to the comprehensive facilities and support provided.
Kaushik further commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his efforts in elevating sports in India through initiatives like the Fit India movement and personal engagement with athletes. He asserted that Modi’s involvement enhances excitement among players and federations, fostering a supportive sports culture.
In conclusion, Abhishek Kaushik’s remarks underscore the intersection of sports and politics, emphasizing that terrorism should not influence sporting events. The positive outcomes from the India International Soft Tennis Championship illustrate India’s growing commitment to sports, supported by exemplary leadership from Prime Minister Modi. The absence of teams from Pakistan and Bangladesh highlights ongoing concerns about safety and security, reinforcing Kaushik’s message about the importance of these issues in the realm of international sports.
Original Source: www.tribuneindia.com
