WATCH: Bengaluru cop stops Pakistani fan chanting ‘Pakistan Zindabad’ during World Cup Match

A video of a Pakistani cricket fan facing off with a police official during the recent World Cup match between Pakistan and Australia in Bengaluru has gone viral, sparking debate on freedom of expression and sportsmanship.

In a 43-second video, a fan wearing a Pakistani jersey is seen in a passionate discussion with a police official. The fan, clearly supporting his team, questions the restriction on his chant of “Pakistan Zindabad”. He asks, “I am from Pakistan; if I don’t say ‘Pakistan Zindabad,’ what else am I supposed to say?”

The fan goes on to compare the situation to people chanting “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and questions why he can’t chant “Pakistan Zindabad.” In response, the official simply says, “Zindabad nahi.”

The fan requests that the official repeat his demand while attempting to record the interaction on his phone. He reiterates his confusion, saying, “I am watching the Pakistan vs. Australia match, but I can’t say ‘Pakistan Zindabad?” as the official eventually walks away.

What Foolishness. They are Pakistani fans, police not allowing them to chant Pakistan Zindabaad 🤣 pic.twitter.com/K9r9aaVJzB

— Gabbar (@GabbbarSingh) October 20, 2023

Soon, the video went viral and garnered mixed reactions. Some people are condemning the police official’s actions, calling it ‘shameful’ that a Pakistani fan was prevented from cheering for his team.

Others found the situation perplexing, labelling it “foolishness” and expressing solidarity with the fan’s right to support his country.