Pakistan has officially announced a boycott of the World Para Athletics Championships starting on 27 September 2025 in New Delhi, citing government advice amid escalating political tensions with India following the April Pahalgam terror attack and India’s subsequent Operation Sindoor in May.
The boycott involves the withdrawal of Pakistan’s para-athletes, including acclaimed shot putter Haider Ali, due to security concerns. Indian authorities expressed disappointment but reiterated that safety and hospitality for all participants remain a priority. The event continues as planned with over 2,200 athletes from 104 countries competing in 186 medal events at New Delhi’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
Pakistan’s Official Stance and Statements
The National Paralympic Committee of Pakistan (NPCP) announced the withdrawal, emphasising their decision was made following direct government advice in light of “the current political climate” between the two nations. The NPCP’s secretary-general, Imran Jamil Shami, stated the safety of athletes and officials was paramount, and given the ongoing tensions, they could not risk participation.
Pakistan did not apply for visas for their top para-athlete Haider Ali, a gold medallist at the Tokyo Paralympics, highlighting the seriousness of the boycott. Indian sports ministry officials responded by expressing their disappointment, affirming strict security arrangements and encouraging sportsmanship as a bridge beyond political disputes.
Background and Context of India-Pakistan Relations Impacting Sports
The boycott comes amid heightened hostility after the Pahalgam terror attack in April, which resulted in the deaths of several Indian soldiers in Kashmir and was allegedly linked to cross-border militant groups. In response, India launched Operation Sindoor in May, targeting militant hideouts and camps.
Pakistan condemned the operation as provocative, while India described it as a necessary counterterrorism action. These developments have aggravated already fragile diplomatic relations between the neighbours.
Sports have suffered collateral damage, with this event following tensions seen in cricket and other international sporting engagements, shining a spotlight on how geopolitics interferes with global sporting unity.
The New Delhi World Para Athletics Championships: Scope and Significance
The 2025 Championships mark a historic moment as India hosts the event for the first time ever, from 27 September to 5 October at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, an iconic venue refurbished with a new Mondo track used in the 2024 Paris Paralympics.
It is the largest para-sport event in India’s history, with 2,200 athletes from 104 countries competing across 186 medal events (101 men’s, 84 women’s, and 1 mixed event). India fields its largest contingent of 74 para-athletes, including world record holders and Paralympic champions such as Sumit Antil, Dharambir Nain, and Preethi Pal. The event signifies India’s growing stature in para-sports and its commitment to world-class inclusive sports infrastructure.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
While recognising the security concerns underpinning Pakistan’s boycott, The Logical Indian views this disruption as deeply regrettable, especially for para-athletes who embody courage and resilience against all odds. Sports, particularly platforms showcasing persons with disabilities, should transcend political tensions and foster solidarity, empathy, and mutual respect.
The championships present an opportunity to celebrate human spirit and inclusivity and could serve as a diplomatic bridge if approached with goodwill by both nations.
