Reports | ISSF World Cup - India's hosting rights under threat after denying visas for Pakistani shooters

On the eve of the opening ceremony for the ISSF World Cup in Delhi, the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) has threatened ‘consequences for India as a host country for future international competitions since it has failed to provide visas to Pakistan shooters. National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) president Raninder Singh conceded this as a violation of Olympic charter but he has refused to speculate on the possible sanctions the country could be facing now.

Referring to the change, Ratner said that this can only be made by the IOC who have been in touch with them regarding the issue on Tuesday. 

NRAI president Raninder Singh said that they have requested a status report from the Indian high commission in Islamabad but there has been no response.

“We know that they were granted a visa. We know that they’ve received a phone call to say that’s a mistake. Thereafter, we are asking for a status report from the high commission and we haven’t received one despite our written requests,” Raninder said.

Moreover, as stated by Ratner, The ‘other consequences’  of this can be more severe. He also talked about the recent case where the IOC stripped Malaysia out of the hosting rights for the World Para-Swimming Championships after they refused to let Israelis compete in the event. 

“Just over three weeks ago all international federations have received a circular letter from the IOC… (in relation to) the case. We can’t make parallels (but) let’s try to find a solution. In the end, it’s up to the IOC. We know the organising committee has done everything possible so it’s not a question of shooting. It’s about the situation in general,” Ratner said.

Although India are again scheduled to host a World Cup next year, Raninder was unwary about that and said his federation cannot comment on government’s decision.

“The NRAI sympathises with families of our soldiers. As a custodians of international federation’s responsibilities, and the Olympic charter, we have made every possible effort to ensure that all nations receive visas. But NRAI is not the government of India. And it cannot comment on the reasons or wisdom of the government. It simply accepts them with all humility given the circumstances. However, what consequences follow from the international federation is something I cannot comment on," the NRAI president explained.