It was meant to be a routine local cricket match in Jammu and Kashmir but it unexpectedly turned into a controversy, drawing the attention of the police and political leaders. A young cricketer participating in a private tournament was reportedly called in for questioning after he was seen batting with a helmet that carried a Palestine flag. The incident quickly became a talking point after visuals from the match spread rapidly across social media.
The player, identified as Furqan Bhat from South Kashmir, was taking part in the Jammu and Kashmir Champions League, a privately organised tournament. He was representing a team named JK11 in a match against Jammu Trailblazers when the now-viral clip was recorded. Soon after the video began circulating online, local police summoned him for questioning to understand the circumstances surrounding the incident.
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Sajid Bhat, the organiser of the tournament who is also from Kashmir, was questioned by the Domana police as well. Authorities began looking into how the incident unfolded and whether any rules or laws had been violated during the event.
The Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association was quick to distance itself from the matter. Officials clarified that the tournament was not affiliated with the association and was entirely private in nature. They also pointed out that the event did not even allow spectators, making it clear that it fell outside their jurisdiction. According to them, once the issue came to light, it was handed over to the local police to deal with appropriately.
The incident also triggered strong reactions from political quarters. A BJP MLA criticised the act, claiming that sports grounds should not be used for messaging that could be seen as politically sensitive. He urged authorities to conduct a thorough investigation, suggesting that such actions either reflect poor judgment or an attempt to push an agenda that does not align with the country’s official stance.
As the matter continues to be examined by the police, the episode has once again highlighted how symbols displayed in public spaces, even during sporting events, can spark wider debates and serious consequences.
