India’s pride and Olympic javelin star Neeraj Chopra has finally responded to the backlash over his invitation to Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem for the upcoming Neeraj Chopra Classic event in Bengaluru this May. His strong and emotional statement came after days of heavy trolling and questions raised about his patriotism, especially in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack that deeply shocked the nation.
All You Need to Know
- Neeraj invited Arshad Nadeem for the Neeraj Chopra Classic event.
- Invitation was sent before the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir.
- The event is scheduled for May 24, 2025 in Bengaluru.
- Arshad Nadeem declined the invite, citing prior commitments.
- Neeraj received harsh criticism, including personal attacks on his family.
- He clarified that his love for India comes above all.
- Neeraj said the aim was only to promote world-class athletics in India.
Why Was Neeraj Criticised?
After the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 lives were lost, emotions across India were raw. Amid this, some people were upset that Neeraj had invited a Pakistani athlete to India. Many questioned his “timing” and even his “loyalty to the country,” sparking a social media storm.
However, Neeraj calmly explained that the invitation had been sent two days before the Pahalgam attack. He also made it clear that this was a gesture of sporting spirit, not politics.
Neeraj Speaks from the Heart
In an emotional and strong post on X (formerly Twitter), Neeraj wrote, “I am usually a man of few words. But when my integrity and my family’s respect is questioned, I have to speak.”
He explained that the invite to Nadeem was from one athlete to another, and there was no political angle to it. Neeraj said, “The Neeraj Chopra Classic is about bringing the best athletes to India. We want India to be known for hosting world-class sports events.”
Family Also Targeted
What hurt Neeraj even more was how some people dragged his mother into the matter. He shared that people praised his mother last year when she had made a kind remark about Nadeem. Now, the same people are targeting her for that very comment. “We are simple people, please don’t make us out to be anything else,” he said.
Arshad Nadeem Will Not Attend
After the attack and growing controversy, Arshad Nadeem decided not to attend the event. Neeraj fully supported the decision, saying, “Given what has happened in the last 48 hours, Arshad’s presence at the event is out of the question. My country and its interests always come first.”
Neeraj Stands Strong for India
Neeraj also said that he is confident India will respond to the terror attack with strength and justice. He added, “I have always carried the name of India with pride, and I will continue to do so. But it hurts to see my integrity being questioned without any reason.”
He promised to keep working hard so that the world sees India with respect and admiration.
FAQs
What is the Neeraj Chopra Classic?
It is a sports event in Bengaluru aimed at bringing top athletes from across the world to India.
Did Arshad Nadeem accept the invite?
No, Arshad Nadeem declined the invitation due to other commitments.
Why did Neeraj face criticism?
He faced backlash for inviting a Pakistani athlete after the Pahalgam terror attack, though the invite was sent earlier.
What did Neeraj say in response?
Neeraj clarified that the invitation was a sporting gesture, and he strongly condemned the terror attack. He said his country always comes first.
Will Arshad Nadeem now participate?
No, Neeraj confirmed that Arshad’s presence is now ruled out.
