The Jammu and Kashmir Police has opened a formal preliminary enquiry after a video surfaced on social media showing a cricketer from South Kashmir wearing a helmet adorned with the Palestinian flag during a private tournament in Jammu. The incident has ignited a fresh controversy, drawing a sharp reaction from former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti.
Police Initiates Enquiry Over 'Public Order' Concerns
On Friday, a police spokesperson confirmed that a 14-day preliminary enquiry under Section 173(3) of the BNSS has been initiated at the Domana police station. The action was taken after a video went viral on Thursday, purportedly showing cricketer Furqan Ul Haq, son of Tajamul Hussain Bhat and a resident of Tangipuna, Pulwama, displaying the Palestine logo on his helmet.
The police stated the enquiry aims to "ascertain the facts, intent, background of the individual, and any possible linkages." They cited the sensitivity of the matter and its potential implications for public order as the reason for the probe. As per the legal provision invoked, such an enquiry requires prior permission from an officer of the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police and must be completed within 14 days to determine if a prima facie case exists for a full investigation.
Match Details and Political Reaction
Sources indicate the incident occurred during a match on Wednesday in the Jammu and Kashmir Champions League, a privately organised tournament. Furqan Ul Haq was playing for the 'JK11' team against 'Jammu Trailblazers' at K C Door, Muthi, on the outskirts of Jammu city. The league is said to be organised by Sajid Bhat, also from Kashmir.
Following the viral video, Furqan and the league organiser were summoned for questioning at the Domana police station. The Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association has distanced itself from the event, clarifying it has no role or association with the unrecognised tournament.
Reacting to the news, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president and former J&K chief minister Mehbooba Mufti took to social media. In a post accompanied by an image of the Palestinian flag, she wrote, "From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free. A flag in the wind, bold and free, From the river to the sea."
Not the First Controversy for Private Leagues
This marks the second time in recent months that a privately organised cricket league in Jammu and Kashmir has found itself in the midst of controversy. In November, organisers of the Indian Heaven Premier League (IHPL) in Srinagar were accused of leaving the city without settling payments to players, match officials, commentators, and a hotel.
The current police enquiry underscores the heightened scrutiny around expressions of international solidarity in the region, with authorities keen to assess any potential law and order ramifications.
