India Clears Air on Visa Approval for Pakistani Scrabble Players

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs refutes reports of denying visas to Pakistani participants for the Asian Youth Scrabble Championship in New Delhi. According to sources, 12 visas, including for titleholders, were granted on November 7. Meanwhile, India's non-attendance at the ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan remains based on security concerns.

The Ministry of External Affairs has firmly dismissed reports that Indian authorities denied visas to Pakistani players participating in the ongoing Asian Youth Scrabble Championship in New Delhi. Officials, according to sources, labeled the claims as 'factually incorrect.' The championship is scheduled from November 10 to 12.

Sources confirmed that a total of 12 visas were approved for the Pakistani team on November 7, facilitating the arrival of participants including the defending Asia Cup champion and the current World Youth Champion. The Ministry described media allegations as false, emphasizing that these visas were timely issued.

The allegations emerged against the backdrop of India's refusal to visit Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy next year, citing security issues. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has proposed a hybrid model for the event, yet the Pakistan Cricket Board refuted any discussions regarding such arrangements.

(With inputs from agencies.)