The bickering over the travel permission to Pakistani officials in the High Commission here to watch Pakistan's T20 World Cup matches escalated today with Islamabad terming as "misleading" India's statement that it has allowed 19 mission officials.
Pakistan High Commission sources also said among those who have not been given permission include Defence Advisor, Press Counsellor, three Political Counsellors, Naval Advisor and Air Force Advisor.
"The High Commission applied for 34 officials to watch four matches two in Kolkata and two in Mohali. They have so far given permission for only 10 which also includes High Commissioner and family members of the officials.
"While permission for Defence Advisor, Press Counsellor, three Political Counsellors, Naval Advisor, Air Force Advisor, and Protocol Assistants have not been given permission. The figure of 19 given by India is misleading," High Commission sources said here.
Yesterday, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Vikas Swarup had said India had approved travel of 19 Pakistan High Commission officials and was prepared to consider more such requests.
"Pakistan has not informed the Government of the itinerary for the proposed travels, as required by bilateral practice. This was despite repeated reminders over the past few days. However, considering the occasion, 19 approvals were issued as a gesture. We have urged that agreed requirements are met so that the rest of the requests can be processed," Swarup had said.
The Pakistan High Commission sources said,"Pakistan never hosted a T20 World Cup so the question of reciprocity does not arise. India is hosting this cup but not willing to allow High Commission officials to be present at venues where our team is playing."
Pakistan played Bangladesh in a Super 10 Group 2 encounter at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata yesterday and will also play against India at the same venue on March 19 among other matches at different venues.
