India is under scrutiny for allegedly concealing the severity of a Nipah virus outbreak, raising alarms over international sports safety.

Official reports claim only two cases in West Bengal since December 2025, but independent investigations indicate at least five hospital-linked infections in Kolkata, involving healthcare workers.

With a fatality rate between 40–75%, Nipah poses a far greater threat than authorities admit.

Concerns are growing that this information is being downplayed to maintain an appearance of control ahead of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, with Eden Gardens in Kolkata among the host venues.

Experts warn that hosting matches in India would put players, officials, and fans at unnecessary risk.

Past international events, such as the 2026 India Open Super 750 badminton tournament, exposed inadequate hygiene, unsafe training facilities, and environmental hazards, leading some athletes to withdraw over safety concerns.

Given the proximity of cricket venues to outbreak zones and India’s repeated lapses in sanitation and event management, critics insist that the ICC relocate the T20 World Cup to Sri Lanka, where proper health protocols and safer conditions can be ensured.

Continuing the tournament in India, they argue, would prioritize optics and revenue over player safety, potentially endangering lives and setting a dangerous precedent for international sporting events.