In a recent incident during an Australia-Pakistan cricket match, an Indian police officer engaged in a conversation with a Pakistan supporter, where he expressed his disapproval of the supporter not allowing the use of “Pakistan Zindabad” (Long live Pakistan) in the context of a cricket match. This interaction was captured in a video by the popular Pakistani YouTuber, Momin Saqib, and later reported by the Pakistani news outlet “Cricket Pakistan.”
In the video posted on Momin Saqib’s Instagram, he is seen talking to a Pakistani supporter wearing a Pakistan jersey, questioning why he couldn’t say “Pakistan Zindabad” when India’s “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” (Hail Mother India) is acceptable. The police officer responds by saying that it’s fine to say “Hail Mother India,” but saying “Long live Pakistan” is not appropriate. The supporter then asks, “Why not? I’ve come from Pakistan, Pakistan is playing, so why can’t I say ‘Long live Pakistan’?”
The supporter suggests making a video where the police officer tells him officially that he cannot say “Long live Pakistan.” However, the police officer does not respond further, and the supporter eventually leaves the scene.
Momin Saqib posted this video on social media, expressing disappointment at the situation and the fact that cricket fans are not allowed to cheer for Pakistan in such a manner. He considers this behavior contrary to the spirit of the game.
In response to Momin Saqib’s post, many Pakistani and Indian citizens have expressed their opinions and concerns about the incident. One Indian individual mentioned feeling disappointed by such behavior, while another, Ankush Choudhary, stated that it wasn’t right. A Pakistani citizen named Mariam Ijaz emphasized the importance of respect in such moments and suggested that Pakistan should win the World Cup with honor.
This incident highlights the emotional and passionate nature of cricket fandom and how it can sometimes lead to disagreements and discussions between supporters of different teams.
