Archive · 21 Jul 2026
India Boycotts 1986 Commonwealth Games Over South Africa Sanctions
A long time ago, in 1986, India decided not to participate in the Commonwealth Games happening in Edinburgh.
This was because India wanted Britain to impose economic sanctions on South Africa, but Britain did not agree.
India hoped that Britain would change its mind, but in the end, India decided to boycott the games.
This made India one of the 24 countries that did not participate in the games.
The Indian Minister of State for Sports, Margaret Alva, said they tried to save the games but couldn't.
Meanwhile, in Pakistan, there were plans to protest against President Zia-ul-Haq.
The opposition leader, Benazir Bhutto, was organizing a big protest with many people to try to remove Zia-ul-Haq from power.
India boycotted the 13th Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh over Britain's stance on South Africa sanctions.
India was the 24th country to boycott the games.
Margaret Alva, the Minister of State for Sports, stated India tried to save the games.
Jammu and Kashmir Governor Jagmohan hinted at sending reports to the Centre but couldn't comment on Governor's rule extension.
BJP proposed a package deal to resolve Punjab-Haryana territorial disputes through a new commission.
- Who
- India, Britain, South Africa
- What
- India boycotted the 13th Commonwealth Games
- When
- July 21, 1986
- Where
- Edinburgh, Scotland
- Why
- Due to Britain's stance on economic sanctions against South Africa
India's Stance
Britain's Position
Economic Sanctions Against South Africa
India's Stance
India boycotted the Commonwealth Games due to Britain's refusal to impose economic sanctions against South Africa.
Britain's Position
Britain maintained its position against imposing economic sanctions on South Africa.
- Event
- 13th Commonwealth Games
- Location
- Edinburgh
- Date
- July 24, 1986
- Countries Boycotting
- 24
- Indian Minister of State for Sports
- Margaret Alva