Government issues official statement on Asia Cup trophy saga - (Source: AFP)It has been two days since India women won the Asia Cup, but the chatter is still about Harmanpreet Kaur and her side’s refusal to take the trophy from ACC chair Mohsin Naqvi. The Women’s side followed in the footsteps of the Men’s team, who too refused to show up for the post-match presentation after beating Pakistan in the 2025 Asia Cup final.In the last couple of days, the BCCI has issued several statements and has backed its decision. In the latest events, government of India has also issued an official statement regarding this matter.Ministry Of External Affairs Speaks on Asia CupEvery Tuesday, the Ministry of External Affairs hold a weekly presser where they address the media. In the latest event, MEA’s administrative spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, spoke on the matter and remarked that it is BCCI’s internal matter and doesn’t lie in the government’s jurisdiction.“The matter falls under the BCCI’s purview and comes within its jurisdiction,” remarked the Ministry Of External Affairs.For the unversed, BCCI is an autonomous body formed in December 1928 without any government interference. There is a debate over this, and recently, the Supreme Court pulled BCCI members to explain why they shouldn’t be brought under the National Sports Governance Act.BCCI Explains Decision Not to Take Asia Cup TrophyA day after India won the Asia Cup trophy, the BCCI explained the situation and stated that ACC chief Mohsin Naqvi was explained about the same.“We discussed the matter among ourselves and decided that we would not accept it (trophy) from him. It was our collective decision. He (Naqvi) also did not raise any objection to it," Rajeev Shukla told reporters.Why Did India Refuse Asia Cup Trophy From Mohsin Naqvi?It all started during the 2025 Asia Cup, where the India vs Pakistan rivalry intensified. The tournament happened just a few months after the Pahalgam attack. India and Pakistan were on the verge of war, and yet the two nations agreed to play against each other.Also Read: Mohsin Naqvi's Future As ACC Chief Hangs By A Thread After Asia Cup Trophy RowIndia refused a post-match handshake after the first meeting, which led to several controversies and to the point where Pakistan almost boycotted the tournament. Eventually, things escalated further, and Mohsin Naqvi’s derogatory remarks against the Indian Army were the final nail in the coffin.Therefore, after the final, the Indian team decided not to take trophy from Naqvi, a tradition continued by the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side.PM Modi Congratulates India on Asia Cup WinAmid the drama, PM Narendra Modi has also congratulated the Indian team for their brilliant efforts in the tournament.“A proud moment for Indian cricket! Congratulations to the Women's team on winning the Asia Cup. May this triumph inspire millions of youngsters across the country to play more and shine,' Modi wrote on X.Besides PM Modi, Indian president Droupadi Murmu also extended her wishes for team India.Also Read: Varun Chakaravarthy Injury Timeline
