Pakistan disappointed over India's refusal to grant visas to squash players: FO
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) reportedly summoned an Indian diplomat on Tuesday to express disappointment over the Indian High Commission's refusal to grant visas to Pakistani squash players, thereby depriving the defending champions of participation at the Asian Senior Individual Championship.
The foreign office, however, did not disclose the details of the Indian diplomat in its statement.
Earlier on Monday, the Indian High Commission denied visas to four Pakistani squash players, depriving them of participation at the Asian Senior Individual Championship being held in India.
The four-member Pakistan team comprising Farhan Mehboob, Farhan Zaman, Tayyab Aslam and Waqar Mehboob were supposed to participate in the mega-regional event.
Pakistan Squash Federation (PSF) Secretary Tahir Sultan said they had applied for visas well on time on March 17, but Indian authorities used delaying tactics in the issuance of visas.
"After returning the passports to us, they (Indian High Commission) contacted us in the evening and asked us to submit the passports again for the issuance of visas but we have now decided not to apply again," the secretary said.
Pakistan has also contacted the World Squash Federation regarding the issue.
Former world champion Jansher Khan lambasted India and said Pakistan should take up this issue with the world squash body as it was an injustice with its players.
“Sports provide platforms for healthy activities and promote friendships among nations but unfortunately India does not believe in it,” he said.