ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has expelled 23 Indian nationals employed by a Pakistan Super League (PSL) broadcast partner, amid escalating diplomatic tensions after the recent incident in Pahalgam.
The expelled individuals were part of a technical crew hired by a broadcasting company to cover the 10th season of the PSL, which began on April 11 and is set to continue until May 18.
The decision to remove them came after the Indian streaming service FanCode halted live coverage of the PSL in India and took down all related content, including match highlights, in response to the Pahalgam incident.
In retaliation, Pakistani authorities ordered the Indian crew to exit the country immediately.
A security official confirmed that the 23 individuals were escorted to the Wagah border under tight security and were sent back to India after clearing immigration and customs procedures.
Expulsion of Indian media personnel
This move comes at a time when border crossings between the two nuclear-armed countries remain closed due to heightened tensions.
The PSL organisers had previously provided the Indian crew with top-level security, recognising their importance in delivering global sports coverage.
Another Indian broadcaster, Sony Network, which holds the PSL’s satellite rights, might follow suit, raising concerns about the league’s future visibility in the Indian market.
The expulsion of Indian media personnel marks a rare but serious development in sports diplomacy, with experts warning that such actions could endanger future cross-border sporting events like the Asia Cup and Champions Trophy.
Pakistan’s warning
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s National Security Committee (NSC) issued a warning on Thursday, stating that any move by India to restrict water flow into Pakistan would be considered an act of war.
The NSC held a high-level meeting where it also decided to officially close the Wagah border crossing. These steps were taken in response to recent measures by India.
A statement from the Prime Minister’s Office expressed sorrow over the loss of lives and criticised India’s actions as “unilateral, unjust, politically motivated, extremely irresponsible, and without legal basis.”
It further stated that India’s response violates international laws, UN Security Council resolutions, and existing bilateral agreements.
