In a significant disciplinary action, the Pakistan Kabaddi Federation (PKF) has handed down an indefinite ban to one of its national players. The player, Nasir Ali Rajput, faced the severe penalty for the controversial act of representing an Indian kabaddi team in a private tournament without official clearance.
The Reason Behind the Ban
The federation's decision came after an emergency meeting held on Saturday, 27 December 2025. During this meeting, officials reviewed the case and found Rajput guilty of a major protocol breach. The core issue was his travel to participate in the overseas tournament without obtaining a mandatory No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the PKF or any other relevant authorities in Pakistan. This certificate is a standard requirement for athletes to compete abroad, ensuring proper permissions and adherence to national federation rules.
Violation of Protocol and Federation Rules
By playing for a team from India, a neighboring and sporting rival nation, Rajput's actions were deemed a serious violation of the federation's code of conduct. The PKF stated that the player undertook the journey and participated in the competition without any prior intimation or approval. This move not only bypassed the official channels but also raised questions about contractual and national representation protocols that govern professional athletes.
Consequences and Future Implications
The indefinite ban effectively suspends Nasir Ali Rajput from all forms of kabaddi recognized by the Pakistan Kabaddi Federation. This means he cannot represent any domestic team, the national squad, or participate in federation-sanctioned events for the foreseeable future. The decision underscores the strict stance sports bodies take on matters of discipline and unauthorized participation. It serves as a stark warning to other athletes about the importance of following due process and securing the necessary NOC before competing internationally, especially in privately organized events.
The incident highlights the complex dynamics of sports diplomacy between India and Pakistan, even at the level of private tournaments. The PKF's swift action demonstrates its intent to maintain control over player movements and uphold its regulatory authority.
