My fellow citizens and soldiers gave their lives for our country, defending us against threats and violence. In light of the recent Pahalgam attack where innocent Indians were brutally murdered by forces from Pakistan, the idea of engaging in a friendly cricket match out of respect for our fallen is deeply troubling.

Following this tragic event, India responded with Operation Sindoor—an operation that, while successful, underscored the ongoing tension and cost lives. The pain and sacrifice faced by our nation’s civilians and soldiers demand that we honor their memory and contribution by taking a significant stand.

Allowing a cricket match in the Asia Cup to proceed as if nothing has transpired feels dismissive of the sacrifices made by those we lost. The image of two teams shaking hands in camaraderie on the field belies the stark reality of current relations and the sorrow still palpable in the hearts of many Indians.

There is power in amplifying our voices to call on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to take a definitive stand. Canceling this match would send a strong message that our values and respect for life take precedence over sportsmanship with an adversary under these circumstances.

By signing this petition, we can demonstrate a collective demand for respect and dignity for the memory of those fallen, prioritizing peace and meaningful gestures over entertainment, and urging BCCI to make the right decision for India. Please join me in making our voices heard and ask the BCCI to call off the cricket match against Pakistan in the Asia Cup. Sign this petition to champion a stance of solidarity with our citizens and soldiers.