Ashok Kumar Speaks Out on Pahalgam Terror Attack and India-Pakistan Hockey Relations

Ashok Kumar's Reaction to the Pahalgam Attack

Gurugram (Haryana) [India], May 1: Ashok Kumar, a former Indian hockey player and son of the legendary Major Dhyan Chand, shared his views on the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, and discussed the implications for India-Pakistan relations in the context of the upcoming Hockey 2025 Asia Cup.

On Tuesday, a tragic attack occurred at the Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam, resulting in the deaths of 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen, with many others injured. This incident has reverberated throughout the nation and garnered international attention.

In response to the attack, India has taken decisive diplomatic actions against Pakistan, holding it accountable for its ongoing support of cross-border terrorism. Global leaders have condemned the violence and expressed their solidarity with India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has denounced the attack, vowing that those responsible will face justice.

“Given the current tense situation, we find ourselves at a critical juncture. The Indian populace stands united behind the Prime Minister, supporting his decisions. Historically, Pakistan has not acted as a good neighbor, and it is essential to seek a resolution that fosters a peaceful coexistence for future generations. India has consistently made efforts towards peace, as seen with leaders like Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Jawaharlal Nehru. However, it requires cooperation from both sides. I believe it is time to address these issues,” Ashok Kumar stated.

He further emphasized, “The spirit of sports promotes friendship and harmony, yet it is evident who orchestrated this attack and which nation facilitated the terrorists. Such acts are reprehensible. We must remember that our nation stands united under the Tiranga, and today, the saffron color symbolizes sacrifice. Therefore, we should refrain from engaging with Pakistan if it contradicts our national interests.”

In light of the April 22 attack, India has closed its airspace to all aircraft registered in Pakistan, as confirmed by the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA). This closure affects all Pakistani-registered, operated, or leased aircraft, including military flights, from April 30 to May 23.

Both nations have restricted each other's airlines from utilizing their airspace, with Pakistan having announced similar measures earlier. Additionally, there has been an uptick in ceasefire violations by Pakistan along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir, prompting a robust response from the Indian Army.

In the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack, security forces have escalated anti-terror operations in the Kashmir valley, with the government granting the armed forces full operational freedom to respond effectively. The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) convened shortly after the attack to discuss its cross-border implications, noting that it occurred following successful elections in Jammu and Kashmir and amidst ongoing economic development.

India has implemented several measures against Pakistan for its role in supporting cross-border terrorism, including suspending the Indus Water Treaty and closing the Integrated Check Post at Attari, as well as reducing the number of personnel in High Commissions.