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The Kabaddi World Cup, which was due to be held in the northern Indian state of Punjab from the 15th to the 28th November has been called off, the Times of India reported on Twitter.
The region is currently in unrest after protesters desecrated a copy of the Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy book, last week. Extremist groups have staged protests since, which have so far seen two deaths with several others injured in constant clashes.
According to reports, protesters carried black flags and carried swords, sticks and other crude weapons in the streets, with police blocking several roads to ensure the safety of citizens.
Kabaddi has seen a resurgence in India following the introduction of the Pro Kabaddi League in 2014. The tournament, based on the format of the IPL or the Indian Premier League, sees 8 teams compete for the title in a round-robin format. The inaugural edition of the league last year was won by the Jaipur Pink Panthers, who beat U Mumba to take the title.
This year, however, last year's runners-up U Mumba beat the Bengaluru Bulls in a final-round clash to take the trophy.
The tournament has brought fame to previously unknown players in addition to giving several of them, who come from impoverished backgrounds, a significant source of livelihood.
More details to follow.
