Police Launch Inquiry Over Palestinian Flag Displayed on Helmet at Jammu Match
Palestinian flag display during match triggers official inquiry.
The Jammu and Kashmir Police on Friday ordered a preliminary inquiry after a cricketer was seen wearing a helmet bearing the Palestinian flag during a private cricket tournament match held in Jammu. Officials said the decision was taken due to the sensitive nature of the incident and the possibility that it could have wider public order implications in the Union Territory.
The issue came to light after videos and photographs circulated widely on social media platforms, showing cricketer Furqan Ul Haq, a resident of Tangipuna village in Pulwama district of south Kashmir, sporting the symbol during a match of the Jammu and Kashmir Champions League. The match was played on Thursday at the K C Door ground in the Muthi area of Jammu, drawing public attention beyond the sporting arena.
A police spokesperson said a 14-day preliminary inquiry has been initiated under Section 173(3) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) at the Domana police station. The inquiry will focus on establishing the facts of the case, understanding the intent behind displaying the symbol, and examining the background of the individual, including any possible associations or linkages.
Also Read: Jammu and Kashmir Bans VPN Use in Several Districts Over Security Concerns
Authorities also clarified that the tournament, which commenced on December 29, is a privately organised cricket league. The Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association issued a statement distancing itself from the event, stating that it has no role, engagement, or recognition of the tournament, and that it does not fall under its official jurisdiction.
The development has renewed scrutiny of privately organised cricket leagues in the Union Territory. It follows the recent collapse of the Indian Heaven Premier League, which shut down abruptly after its organisers allegedly fled Srinagar, leaving players, officials, broadcasters, and hotel staff unpaid. That league, which had featured international stars and former Indian cricketers, folded midway through its schedule, raising concerns over regulation and oversight of private sporting events in the region.
Also Read: #JUSTIN: Security Forces Destroy Suspicious Bag on J&K Highway, Area Secured
