Peshawar High Court demands answers on Shandur Polo Festival cancellation

The Peshawar High Court (PHC) has directed the Chief Secretary of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the Secretary of Tourism to provide a detailed response regarding the sudden cancellation of the Shandur Polo Festival, which was set to take place at the world's highest polo ground. The festival, a significant cultural event that promotes tourism and fosters cultural exchange between Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan, was called off due to alleged weather concerns.

The decision to cancel the festival has been met with strong opposition, with the petitioner's counsel arguing that the cancellation was unjustified. The counsel highlighted that all necessary preparations had been completed, and players had already arrived with their horses. It was emphasized that the weather conditions at the time were not unusual for the region, as similar conditions had not disrupted the festival in previous years.

Furthermore, the counsel pointed out that the government had failed to consult with the Gilgit-Baltistan government before making the decision, which was deemed essential for such a significant event. The cancellation has resulted in substantial financial losses for the players, many of whom belong to the middle class and rely on events like the Shandur Polo Festival for income.

The PHC divisional bench, comprising Justice Naeem Anwar and Justice Shahid Khan, has granted a week's time for the Chief Secretary and Secretary of Tourism to respond to the petition. The abrupt cancellation of the festival has sparked disappointment and anger among the players, organizers, and local communities, highlighting the festival's importance in the region.

The Shandur Polo Festival's cancellation has raised concerns and prompted legal action to address the perceived injustice. As the court awaits the response from the authorities, the future of this iconic event hangs in the balance, impacting not only the participants but also the cultural exchange and tourism opportunities it brings to the region.