Sudhir Gautham, who is arguably Indian cricket’s biggest fan, wasn’t allowed to enter the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) stadium in Mohali, in the ongoing Test match between India and England.
Sudhir Gautham is famous for his avatar that he creates while watching matches in stadiums across the world. Gautham colours his body in tri-colour and keeps a big Indian flag with him. But, this time, his avatar became the reason for him being barred from entering the PCA stadium in Mohali. On Friday, Sudhir Gautham was seen standing outside the PCA stadium staring at the signboard citing the reason for security officials not allowing him entry.
In an advisory for the spectators, the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) has asked “to strictly follow the guidelines provided under the Flag Code of India 2002 and Prevention of Insults to the National Honour Act, 1971.”
The secretary of PCA GS Wali told TOI in an interview: “We have been asked to adhere to it without fail; hence, the local police and security officials have been informed about it. They will now ensure that it is strictly followed.”
However, Sudhir Gautam told media that he is surprised as he wasn’t stopped at the previous two venues of the series.
“Nobody stopped me there, so I am surprised why it’s happening here,” Sudhir said while holding his flag and conch shell at Gate No. 1 of the stadium.
