The Pakistan men's hockey team has received clearance from the Indian government to participate in the Asia Cup 2025, which is scheduled to be held in Bihar, India. Approvals were granted by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), and the Sports Ministry. This clearance also extends to the Junior Hockey World Cup scheduled for the same period. Despite the approval, senior officials from the Pakistan Sports Board and the Pakistan Hockey Federation have indicated that they are still awaiting government clearance from Pakistan to confirm participation. The decision comes two months after the Pahalgam terror attack, and it has sparked political criticism within India. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray criticized the central government and the BJP-led Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for allowing Pakistan's participation, warning that if no objections arise, Pakistan may also be permitted to participate in the Cricket Asia Cup. The Indian government has emphasized that Pakistan will not be stopped from competing in these hockey events.