Govt allows shooting team's India trip despite blocking cricket squad

Despite cancelling the national cricket team's tour to India for the T20 World Cup over security concerns, the government has permitted the shooting team to travel to Delhi for the Asian Rifle and Pistol Shooting Championship.

The Ministry of Youth and Sports issued the Government Order (GO) for the shooting team's tour on Wednesday, January 28. The international competition will be held in Delhi from February 2 to 14.

The government's assessment is that the competition, being held indoors in a secured area, does not carry a major security risk. Youth and Sports Secretary Md Mahbub-ul-Alam said, "The Bangladesh team is small—consisting of one athlete and one coach. The hosts have also provided security assurances. All aspects were considered before permitting the shooting team to go to India."

The country's sole participant will be top shooter Rabul Islam, with his event scheduled for February 5. Coach Sharmin Akter will accompany the team.

As a naval athlete with a special passport, Rabul Islam can stay in India for seven days without a visa. Coach Sharmin Akter, however, will require a visa. They are scheduled to depart for Delhi on January 31. This will be the Shooting Federation's first international competition since the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Rabul Islam mentioned that carrying weapons and ammunition for the sport requires approval from the home ministry. The Youth and Sports Secretary confirmed the necessary GO for the tour has already been issued.