“India trying to become Israel:” Afridi slams Modi’s anti-Pakistan politics

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi voiced strong criticism of the growing anti-Pakistan and anti-Muslim sentiment in India, accusing the Modi-led government of adopting policies similar to Israel.

Speaking on a sports show, Afridi said the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has consistently used hate-based politics for electoral gains. “This government always plays the Muslim-Hindu card to come to power. It is an obnoxious mindset, and it will remain as long as this government is in India,” he remarked.

Afridi contrasted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s politics with other Indian leaders who he said adopt a more inclusive approach. “Rahul Gandhi is a very positive man; he wants to get along with everyone,” Afridi noted.

Continuing his criticism, Afridi added, “One Israel is not enough that you are becoming another Israel in this region. But the bottom line is that they cannot change.”

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His comments came in the backdrop of controversy following the Pakistan-India clash in the Asia Cup on September 14. The Indian team reportedly refused to shake hands with their Pakistani counterparts, a move widely condemned as being against the spirit of sportsmanship. India went on to win the match by seven wickets.

The post-match presentation also stirred debate when Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav dedicated the victory to the victims of Pahalgam. Critics argued that this amounted to a political statement, which contravenes ICC regulations prohibiting political references during international cricket.