Congress MP Tariq Anwar Slams ICC Chairman Jay Shah Over Temple Visit with T20 Trophy
Congress MP from Katihar, Tariq Anwar, has strongly criticized ICC chairman Jay Shah for accompanying the Indian cricket team to a temple in Ahmedabad with the T20 World Cup trophy after their victory against New Zealand on Sunday night. The incident has ignited a political firestorm, with BJP leaders hitting back at the remarks.
"Not Our Tradition": Tariq Anwar's Stance
Tariq Anwar stated that taking the trophy to a temple does not align with "our tradition," expressing disapproval of the gesture. His comments came amid a broader controversy involving other political figures.
BJP's Strong Condemnation
When questioned about the issue, sports minister Shreyasi Singh responded sharply, saying, "Shame on him for making such a comment." BJP leaders have condemned Tariq Anwar and others for politicizing the cricket team's actions.
Trinamool Congress MP Kirti Azad Joins the Fray
Trinamool Congress MP Kirti Azad also launched a scathing attack on Jay Shah and CM Nitish Kumar's son Nishant Kumar on social media platform X, accusing them of "nepotism." Earlier, Kirti Azad had expressed displeasure over the temple visit, claiming the Indian team felt "ashamed."
When asked about Kirti Azad's remarks, Tariq Anwar supported the TMC MP, stating that his comments were absolutely correct. This alignment between opposition MPs has further fueled the debate.
BJP Leaders Defend the Temple Visit
BJP OBC Morcha national general secretary Nikhil Anand criticized both MPs, saying, "When the World Cup winning team went to Hanuman temple to seek blessings of God by offering prayers, the TMC MP rebuked this and today Congress MP Tariq Anwar has supported him. We condemn Kirti and Tariq for dragging the Indian cricket team into politics."
BJP national spokesman Syed Shahnawaz Hussain defended the players' actions, arguing, "If someone is holding the trophy close and sharing his happiness with his family, and if he also goes to a temple, why can someone have any objection? Everyone has offered their prayers; the players have played and won."
Political Implications and Broader Context
The controversy highlights the intersection of sports and politics in India, with leaders from major parties clashing over cultural and religious symbolism. The incident follows India's triumphant T20 World Cup win, which had united the nation in celebration, now overshadowed by political discord.
As the debate rages on, it underscores the delicate balance between personal faith, national pride, and political narratives in the country's public sphere.
