Indian football is once again staring at heartbreak. Despite a steady revival under coach Khalid Jamil and recent promising performances, the team may be denied a chance to compete at the Asian Games. The Indian government has decided that only medal-contending teams will be sent, and football is likely not to make the cut. With India ranked 24th in Asia, the AIFF’s hopes now rest on special exemptions. This setback echoes past struggles in 1994, 2018, and 2023, when football’s participation hung in the balance. At a time when Indian football needs opportunities to grow, will this move choke its future? Or will AIFF fight back for the game’s rightful place? Rupha Ramani decodes.