By Arvind Sharma
India faces a crucial decision regarding its participation in the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, with growing calls for a boycott. This sentiment has emerged following the announcement that several sports dominated by Asian countries, particularly India, have been excluded from the event. Key sports such as hockey, cricket, badminton, wrestling, squash, and shooting—where Indian athletes have consistently excelled—will not be part of the Glasgow Games, raising concerns about fairness and inclusivity.
Impact on India’s Medal Prospects
The omission of these sports is a significant blow to India’s medal hopes. India has traditionally performed well in events like shooting, wrestling, and hockey at the Commonwealth Games, contributing to its strong standing in the medal tally. By removing these disciplines, the opportunities for Indian athletes to showcase their talents on the global stage are severely diminished. This decision also disproportionately affects other Asian countries that dominate these sports, such as Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Malaysia, weakening the overall competitiveness of the Games.
A Missed Opportunity for Unity in Sport
The Commonwealth Games, historically, have been a platform for fostering international camaraderie and cultural exchange through sport. However, the exclusion of popular sports in many Asian nations creates a significant imbalance. Sports like cricket and hockey, which have a deep-rooted cultural significance in countries like India and Pakistan, unite fans across borders. Their removal from the event not only impacts athletes but also alienates millions of viewers who follow the Games to watch these beloved sports.
The Rationale Behind the Decision
The decision to streamline the 2026 Commonwealth Games program was made to reduce costs after Australia withdrew from hosting due to rising expenses. Glasgow stepped in as the host, with a trimmed-down sports lineup aimed at creating a more budget-friendly event. The number of sporting disciplines was reduced from 19 at the 2022 Birmingham Games to just 10 for the Glasgow Games. While financial constraints are understandable, the exclusion of key sports that are integral to the Commonwealth community has sparked widespread criticism.
A Second Option: India as a Potential Host
Instead of accepting the exclusion of these sports, India could offer to host the Commonwealth Games 2026 in its original format. This could provide a more inclusive platform, respecting the diversity of sports across Commonwealth nations. Hosting the Games would also bolster India’s bid to host future global events, including the Olympics. India’s growing infrastructure and experience in organizing large-scale events make it a strong contender for such an opportunity.
By positioning itself as an alternative host, India could highlight its commitment to the Commonwealth’s core values of equality and inclusion in sports. Such a move would not only preserve the spirit of the Games but also strengthen India’s case as a future Olympic host.
A Stand for Fair Play
As the debate around India’s participation in the 2026 Commonwealth Games intensifies, the decision will ultimately rest on the principles of fair play and equal representation. Boycotting the event could send a powerful message to the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) about the importance of maintaining a balanced, diverse, and inclusive sporting program. Alternatively, offering to host the Games in their original format would be a proactive step in safeguarding the interests of athletes and fans alike.
For India, this decision is more than just about medals; it’s about standing up for the values that sports represent—fairness, inclusivity, and unity across borders. Whether through a boycott or a bold bid to host, India’s stance on the 2026 Commonwealth Games could set a precedent for how global sporting events are shaped in the future.
The writer Arvind Sharma is Dharamsala based senior journalist
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