Picture Credit: X
In the wake of the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of several Indian citizens, former Pakistani cricketer Danish Kaneria publicly questioned the silence of Pakistan’s leader. In a strongly worded post on X, Kaneria asked, “If Pakistan really has no role in the Pahalgam terror attack, then why hasn’t PM Shehbaz Sharif condemned it yet?” The statement drew significant attention across the subcontinent, highlighting ongoing tensions and the international spotlight on state accountability following such heinous acts of violence.
Kaneria, who has often taken firm stands on cross-border issues despite facing backlash in his own country, has been a rare voice from Pakistan expressing solidarity with India on matters of terror. His post came amid rising calls for global condemnation of the attack, which has left the Indian nation mourning and demanding justice. The sports fraternity in India, who is often quick to unite in times of national crisis also responded with visible tributes on the field.
Indian sports community pays tribute to Pahalgam terror attack victims
On April 23, 2025, during the high-profile Indian Premier League (IPL) match between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), players and umpires wore black armbands and observed a minute of silence before the match commenced. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) also decided to cancel the usual fanfare; no cheerleaders, no celebratory fireworks to maintain a sombre atmosphere in memory of the fallen. Players like Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya took to social media to express their grief and extend condolences to the bereaved families.
On the same day, a similar tribute was observed during the Kalinga Super Cup match between Bengaluru FC and Inter Kashi. Both sets of players wore black armbands and stood in silence to pay their respects, echoing the collective sentiment of a grieving nation. From cricket stadiums to football grounds, Indian athletes stood together, reinforcing the unifying power of sport in times of sorrow.
