I.P.L.

The Indian Premier League (I.P.L.) auction for season three has opened a can of worms with the Pakistani players cold-shouldered by various franchisees. While many have cited the proposition as ‘too risky’ owing to visa issues, we all know it is just tip of the iceberg.

We must not forget the full form of I.P.L. - Indian Premier League and yesterday’s incident reinforces the fact that we are in no mood to forget 26/11. What surprises me is the sudden rise in anti- Pak sentiments. We all know that relations between the two nations are cold but it has always been discussed in hush-hush manner. One reason that can be attributed to this change was the class of people that were being targeted. Middle class has always been at the receiving end of mayhem caused but terrorists and unfortunately many of them have accepted it as a way of life. The rich crowd was relatively untouched and I use the term relatively because I know there scars and wounds still exist. When this group of elite, air-kissing and (mostly) SoBo public saw their swish hangout places turn into a picture of destruction and devastation, they were shaken to the core and they realized they have to break out of the trance. Forced to face a fight or flight situation, they had no option to break open their protective shell and fight in their own way. Many finally realized that walking around with high heels is not going to keep their feet safe from the muck.

With I.P.L. being dominated with Indian buyers, this unique show of solidarity has sent out a strong message that we won’t take it lying down. Although on a personal level I do feel bad for the Pak players because they have to earn their livelihood and this tournament is a bonus for anyone. But with Pakistan in self-denial mode about 26/11, a diplomatic approach is not going to help. Since we have given the royal ignore to their heroes, it might just stir up something positive in our dormant and sterile neighbours. After all, peace practiced due to fear is nothing but a suppressed war.