AHMEDABAD: BJP MP and BCCI Secretary Anurag Thakur today hit out at Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh over the relocation of India-Pakistan World T20 match, saying his statements gave "opportunity" to Islamabad to question India on security and harm the country's reputation.
Thakur also sought the Chief Minister's resignation over the issue.
"Congress should make the Himachal CM answerable about the whole issue (change in venue) as his irresponsible comments harmed the reputation of not only Himachal Pradesh but also India," Thakur told reporters here.
"Due to his comments, Pakistan found a chance to claim that India is not a safe country. I think the Chief Minister should resign on this issue," said Thakur, a Lok Sabha MP from Hamirpur in Himachal Pradesh.
Two days back, the March 19 World Twenty20 group match between the arch-rivals was shifted to Kolkata from Dharamsala in Himachal Pradesh due to security reasons.
The move by ICC came in the wake of Singh reportedly refusing to guarantee security for the visiting cricket team and allegedly making public comments that the match may face demonstrations.
Thakur stated India does not need to prove anything to anyone over the issue of providing security to visiting players.
"India does not have to prove anything to anyone.
Recently, around 500 Pakistani players came here and took part in South Asian Games (held in Guwahati & Shillong last month).
"This is the biggest proof that India is capable of providing security to everyone," said Thakur, who was here for a party function.