The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has suspended the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season indefinitely due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, triggered by the recent Pahalgam terror attack and subsequent military actions dubbed “Operation Sindoor.” The decision was confirmed by a senior BCCI official on Friday, May 9, 2025, following a chaotic evacuation of players and spectators during a match in Dharamsala.
The Pahalgam attack on April 22, 2025, claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists, and was attributed to The Resistance Front, a proxy of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba. In response, India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, striking nine terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Pakistan retaliated with drone and missile attacks on May 8, targeting Indian military and civilian sites, though these were intercepted by Indian air defenses. The heightened conflict led to the closure of multiple airports, including Dharamsala, disrupting team logistics.
A pivotal moment came during the Punjab Kings vs. Delhi Capitals match on May 8 at Dharamsala’s HPCA Stadium, when air raid alerts and a power blackout halted play in the 11th over. Floodlights failed, and the stadium was evacuated amid anti-Pakistan slogans from the crowd. The BCCI arranged a special train to transport players, staff, and crew to Delhi, as air travel remained suspended across northern India.
“The BCCI prioritizes the safety of players, staff, and fans,” the official stated. “Given the ongoing security situation, continuing the tournament is not feasible.” The decision has sparked concerns among franchises, with foreign players expressing unease about remaining in India amid the crisis. The BCCI is reportedly in discussions with the Indian government to assess whether the tournament can resume later in 2025 or be relocated, as was done during the 2021 COVID-19 disruption.
The IPL, a global cricketing spectacle, had completed 56 of its 74 scheduled matches, with the playoffs looming. The suspension has left fans disappointed, with social media posts reflecting frustration and calls for de-escalation. The BCCI has promised to monitor the situation and provide updates, urging stakeholders to prioritize national security.