New Delhi, Feb. 15 -- Following the drama surrounding Pakistan's boycott of the high-octane fixture with India in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, Senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid said that while public sentiments must be respected regarding the upcoming clash, leadership must also show direction and act with responsibility.

Speaking on Saturday, when asked about certain quarters questioning whether India should play Pakistan in international tournaments amid strained ties, Khurshid said that respecting national sentiments does not mean ignoring reason or thoughtful decision-making.

"The sentiments of the country should be respected; there is no doubt about it. But the sentiments of the country cannot be respected by closing one's eye...