International Olympic Committee lifts India ban after Pakistan visa assurance

Published June 21, 2019
Shooters from different participating countries take part in a practice session with air pistols at the International Shooting Sport Federation World Cup at Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range, in New Delhi. ─ AFP/File
Shooters from different participating countries take part in a practice session with air pistols at the International Shooting Sport Federation World Cup at Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range, in New Delhi. ─ AFP/File

The International Olympic Committee has lifted a ban on India hosting international sporting events after receiving assurances over visas for Pakistani competitors.

In February, India triggered a stand off with the IOC when it refused to allow Pakistani shooters to attend a Tokyo 2020 Games qualifying competition.

But on Thursday, IOC president Thomas Bach said India were now back in the Olympic fold.

“We have received the assurance of the Indian government that they will in future respect the Olympic charter and that they will give permission to enter India for all athletes who want to participate in the relevant Olympic events or qualifications events,” Bach announced.

The Olympic chief continued: “For this reason the (IOC) Executive Board has today (Thursday) lifted this suspension of India to organise international sports events.”

India had accused Pakistan of involvement in a suicide bombing in Indian-occupied Kashmir in February that killed 40 paramilitary soldiers and had vowed to “isolate” its arch-rival neighbour over the attack.

Opinion

Editorial

‘Source of terror’
Updated 29 Mar, 2024

‘Source of terror’

It is clear that going after militant groups inside Afghanistan unilaterally presents its own set of difficulties.
Chipping in
29 Mar, 2024

Chipping in

FEDERAL infrastructure development schemes are located in the provinces. Most such projects — for instance,...
Toxic emitters
29 Mar, 2024

Toxic emitters

IT is concerning to note that dozens of industries have been violating environmental laws in and around Islamabad....
Judiciary’s SOS
Updated 28 Mar, 2024

Judiciary’s SOS

The ball is now in CJP Isa’s court, and he will feel pressure to take action.
Data protection
28 Mar, 2024

Data protection

WHAT do we want? Data protection laws. When do we want them? Immediately. Without delay, if we are to prevent ...
Selling humans
28 Mar, 2024

Selling humans

HUMAN traders feed off economic distress; they peddle promises of a better life to the impoverished who, mired in...