Sanjay Raut Calls Ajit Pawar a Foolish Politician Over India-Pakistan Cricket Comments

Sanjay Raut criticises Ajit Pawar for his comments on the India-Pakistan cricket match, labelling him a foolish politician and questioning his patriotism.

Shiv Sena UBT MP Sanjay Raut criticised Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Sunday, calling him a foolish politician and half Pakistani. This was in response to remarks Pawar made about the India-Pakistan cricket match, suggesting it should be seen purely as a game without emotional politics. Raut questioned Pawar's patriotism, saying, "He is a foolish politician. He is half Pakistani. If Ajit Pawar says this, then Pakistani blood flows in him. This language is not that of a patriotic citizen."

A day before, Ajit Pawar had commented on the cricket match decision being made at the right forum, acknowledging differing opinions. He stated, "The country has a population of 140 crore. In such a vast country, there are bound to be differences of opinion over the cricket match. Some people may feel that since relations between the two countries are strained, there should be no match. At the same time, others may support the game."

Protests and Public Reactions

In anticipation of the Asia Cup cricket match, Shiv Sena UBT organised protests across Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Jammu on Sunday. They urged people to boycott the game against Pakistan due to its alleged sponsorship of terrorism. Meanwhile, Aam Aadmi Party members held a demonstration in Delhi.

Raut further criticised Pawar by mentioning the Pahalgam terror attack victims. He implied that if Pawar had family among the 26 victims, his stance might differ. Raut's comments came during a media interaction where he expressed his disapproval of Pawar's remarks.

Pawar's comments highlighted the diverse opinions within India regarding sporting ties with Pakistan amidst strained relations. While some advocate for maintaining sports as a separate entity from politics, others believe matches should be avoided due to ongoing tensions.

The differing views on whether to play cricket with Pakistan reflect broader public sentiment in India. The debate continues as both sides present their arguments on how sports and politics should intersect in such contexts.

With inputs from PTI