Tarar rejects Indian media's claims over alleged threats to ICC Champions Trophy
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Information Minister Attaullah Tarar strongly rebutted Indian media reports alleging a terror threat to foreign guests attending the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan.
Speaking in an interview on a private news channel on Monday, he stated that Pakistan was hosting the event 'peacefully and very ably,' dismissing claims made by Indian outlets.
Earlier, it was reported that Pakistan's Intelligence Bureau had issued a high alert regarding a potential plot by covert terror groups to abduct foreign guests attending the tournament for ransom.
The report named several terror outfits, including Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan, Islamic State, and Balochistan-based groups. It further mentioned that Pakistan's security forces had deployed high-level protection teams to ensure the safety of the players and staff.
In response, Tarar denounced the reports as false propaganda intended to harm Pakistan's image and sabotage the successful hosting of the tournament. He accused Indian media of politicising sports and spreading lies to undermine the event.
He said, "Pakistan is one of the safest venues, and we have been able to conduct the ICC matches very peacefully and very efficiently."
Tarar also criticised India's refusal to tour Pakistan for the tournament, instead opting to play all their matches in Dubai.
He suggested that India's campaign against Pakistan's successful hosting of the event stemmed from jealousy and discomfort at the prospect of a major international sports event being held in Pakistan.
The minister highlighted the packed stadium at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium during the England vs Australia match last week, praising the positive atmosphere and the presence of international fans. Tarar also refuted claims of low attendance, stating that the reports were fabricated.
He concluded by reiterating that Pakistan would continue to host the tournament successfully, rejecting any attempts at spreading harmful propaganda.
"India's propaganda will fall flat on its face," he said, higlighting that the ICC Champions Trophy was a victory not just for Pakistan, but for the global sports community.
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