Mumbai, February 10: In a significant development ahead of the cricket calendar, Congress leader Bhai Jagtap has welcomed the decision to reinstate the high-stakes India-Pakistan match, calling it a ‘welcome step’ that keeps politics out of sports.
Speaking exclusively to IANS in Mumbai, Jagtap emphasized the sanctity of sports, arts, and music as domains free from political interference. ‘This was my stance even when my government was in power, and it remains unchanged today,’ he asserted. Reflecting on past tensions, he noted Pakistan’s earlier reluctance to play against India, a stance he found puzzling. Credit now goes to ICC Chairman Jay Shah for resolving the impasse. ‘Countless World Cups have been held without any nation walking out midway. With the India-Pakistan clash now on, it’s a moment to celebrate,’ Jagtap added.
On Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s recent statements, Jagtap treaded cautiously. ‘That’s a matter concerning Yogi Adityanath. I lack full details on the situation there, making it a sensitive issue on which I won’t comment,’ he said.
Addressing RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s call for the Bharat Ratna to be awarded to Veer Savarkar, Jagtap remarked that the honor of 140 crore Indians is the true Bharat Ratna. ‘Past recipients dedicated their lives to the nation. Allegations against Savarkar are well-documented. If Bhagwat, with his deeper insights, demands it, that’s his prerogative,’ he observed.
Finally, responding to Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane’s criticism of Salman Khan’s presence at an RSS event, Jagtap defended the actor. ‘Sports, arts, and Bollywood represent our national pride and traditions. No politics should taint them. Comments on Salman or Shah Rukh come from those who know better how to respond,’ he concluded, urging unity beyond partisan lines.