A controversy has broken out in Jammu and Kashmir after a cricketer was seen wearing a helmet with a Palestinian flag during a domestic league match, prompting police action and a wider investigation.
The incident took place on January 1, 2026, during a match of the Jammu and Kashmir Champions League (JKCL) in Jammu district. Cricketer Furqan Bhat, who was playing for the local JK11 team against the Jammu Trailblazers, appeared on the field with a helmet displaying the Palestinian flag. The visual quickly drew attention and triggered objections.
Police officials said Furqan Bhat has been summoned by the Jammu Rural Police for questioning in connection with the matter. “The player has been called to ascertain the circumstances and intent behind the use of the flag during the match,” a police official said. He added that further investigation is underway.
The controversy has also brought the organisers of the tournament under scrutiny. JKCL organiser Zahid Bhat has been summoned for questioning, along with the person who provided the ground where the match was held. “We are examining all aspects related to the event, including permissions and the role of organisers,” the official told media.
Police said they are trying to determine whether any rules were violated and if the act had any larger implications. Officials have not yet clarified the reason behind Furqan Bhat’s action, and no formal charges have been announced so far.
Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) has distanced itself from the controversy. Speaking to News18, a JKCA official said the association has no connection with the tournament. “The Jammu and Kashmir Champions League is not organised by us, and the player is not affiliated with the JKCA. Therefore, there is no question of the association taking any action,” the official said.
The incident comes at a time when protests supporting Palestinian statehood are taking place across the world, months after a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The humanitarian situation in Gaza has remained grim, with reports of severe food shortages and a lack of essential medicines. Several international humanitarian organisations have also raised concerns over Israel’s reported plans to ban dozens of aid groups operating in the region.
India has long maintained that it supports a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict, which includes the creation of an independent Palestinian state.
