Venkatesh Prasad Slams Pakistan Over Ceasefire Violation: ‘India Must Teach a Lesson’
In a dramatic turn of events, former Indian cricketer Venkatesh Prasad has launched a scathing critique of Pakistan following their brazen violation of a ceasefire agreement, mere hours after both nations announced a mutual de-escalation of hostilities. The incident has reignited tensions along the volatile India-Pakistan border, casting a shadow over the fragile peace process.
Earlier in the day, a formal ceasefire agreement was jointly declared by the Directors-General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of India and Pakistan, signaling an immediate cessation of all hostilities—be it on land, air, or sea. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar both reiterated India’s commitment to peace, while maintaining a firm stance against terrorism. Jaishankar emphasized, ‘India has consistently upheld an uncompromising position against terrorism in all its forms, and we will continue to do so.’
However, the ink on the agreement had barely dried when chaos erupted. By evening, powerful explosions rocked Srinagar, triggering a red alert and widespread blackouts across Jammu & Kashmir. Simultaneously, Indian Air Defence forces intercepted and neutralized Pakistani drones in Rajasthan’s Pokhran and Kashmir’s Baramulla regions. These provocative actions have fueled outrage and raised serious questions about Pakistan’s commitment to peace.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Venkatesh Prasad, known for his fiery pace bowling and equally sharp opinions, didn’t hold back. He pointed to the systemic instability within Pakistan, stating, ‘That country has three power centers—the Army, the ISI, and the Prime Minister. It’s virtually impossible for all three to align on anything, even if one agrees.’ Prasad further urged a strong Indian response, adding, ‘The last three days of hostility weren’t enough. With this provocation, India will teach Pakistan a lesson of a lifetime.‘
The current flare-up follows a tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 people, including several tourists. India retaliated with Operation Sindoor on May 7, a surgical strike that dismantled nine terrorist bases deep inside Pakistani territory, as confirmed by military sources. This operation, while lauded by many within India, had already heightened cross-border tensions, making the ceasefire agreement a critical step toward de-escalation—until Pakistan’s actions shattered the uneasy calm.
As a cricket journalist, it’s impossible to ignore the historical context of India-Pakistan relations spilling over into the sporting arena. Matches between the two nations, particularly in marquee events like the ICC Cricket World Cup, often carry the weight of political undertones. Venkatesh Prasad himself has been part of iconic clashes, including the unforgettable 1996 World Cup quarter-final against Pakistan, where his fiery send-off to Aamer Sohail became a symbol of Indian defiance. Today, his words echo that same unyielding spirit.
With military tensions at a boiling point, the international community watches anxiously. The Line of Control (LoC) remains a flashpoint, with both nations on high alert. Reports indicate that over 50 ceasefire violations have been recorded in the past year alone, with civilian casualties on both sides. The United Nations has called for restraint, but with trust between the two neighbors at an all-time low, a resolution seems distant.
In conclusion, Venkatesh Prasad’s remarks encapsulate the frustration felt by millions across India as peace remains elusive. As explosions echo in the valleys of Kashmir and drones breach Indian airspace, the question looms large: will India’s response match the intensity of Prasad’s words? Only time will tell, but for now, the nation stands united against provocation, yearning for a lasting solution to this decades-long conflict.