Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Sep 16: Shiv Sena (UBT) sharply condemned the BJP-led Union government on Tuesday, accusing it of exposing its patriotism and Hindutva ideals by allowing the India-Pakistan cricket match to take place in Dubai. In its party mouthpiece Saamana, the Thackeray faction accused the government of indirectly supporting terrorism by facilitating a match that financially benefits Pakistan.

The editorial claimed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) earned at least Rs 1,000 crore from the Dubai fixture, with Rs 50,000 crore reportedly flowing to Pakistani gambling operators through betting. Shiv Sena (UBT) alleged that this bolstered those involved in terrorism against India.

Highlighting the contradiction, the party pointed to the backlash against Diljit Dosanjh’s film for featuring a Pakistani actress, questioning why a cricket match against Pakistan was permitted, considering the massive financial gains made by the PCB in a single day.

The editorial said many patriotic viewers switched off their TVs as soon as the match began. It quoted cricketer Sunil Gavaskar, who acknowledged the central government’s decision to play Pakistan, stating that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and players had to comply.

Actor Nana Patekar’s strong opposition was also cited, where he asked, “Why should I play with those who shed the blood of my people?”

Shiv Sena (UBT) further alleged the government’s approval was influenced by Jay Shah, the President of the International Cricket Council and a former BCCI official, accusing him of prioritizing profit over patriotism. The editorial described Jay Shah as being “in the business to earn money,” questioning the government’s motives in allowing the match.