Two Kashmiri students studying pharmacy in Bhopal under the Prime Minister’s Special Scholarship Scheme (PMSSS) are allegedly facing harassment, intimidation and pressure to leave their rented accommodation because they are Muslims from Kashmir.
The allegations were raised by Nasir Khuehami, who urged the Madhya Pradesh government and police to intervene and ensure the students’ safety.
Students Allegedly Targeted Over Kashmiri Identity
According to Khuehami, the two students are pursuing pharmacy at TRUBA Institute of Pharmacy, Bhopal, after being selected under the PMSSS.
Although hostel accommodation was allotted to them under the scheme, the college reportedly does not currently have hostel facilities available. As a result, the students have been staying at a paying-guest accommodation in Shanti Homes Colony, Korand Gandhi Nagar, since last year.
Khuehami alleged that members of the local colony or society and other people have been putting pressure on the landlord to evict the students because they are Kashmiri Muslims.
He further alleged that the landlord was warned that people would forcibly enter the premises and remove the students if they were not evicted.
Students Fear Leaving Their Accommodation
According to the allegations, the situation has left the students frightened and unable to freely leave their accommodation, travel or attend college.
The students reportedly approached their college authorities for help but, according to Khuehami, did not receive meaningful assistance.
He said the students have consequently been left uncertain about their safety, accommodation and ability to continue their education.
“No student should ever have to choose between their safety and their education,” Khuehami said.
He added that students should not face threats, intimidation or eviction because of their “religion, identity or place of origin.”
Appeal To MP Government And Police
Khuehami urged Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and state police chief Kailash Makwana to immediately verify the allegations and take action against anyone found responsible for threats, intimidation or discriminatory harassment.
He also called for the authorities to coordinate with the college and arrange safe alternative accommodation for the students if hostel facilities remain unavailable.
“The college administration also has a responsibility towards students studying under PMSSS,” Khuehami said, adding that complaints relating to students’ safety should be treated with urgency.
He appealed to the government to ensure that neither student is forced to leave their current accommodation through pressure or intimidation until a safe alternative has been arranged.
‘Kashmiri Students Are Equal Citizens’
Khuehami stressed that Kashmiri students have the same right as other Indian citizens to study and live anywhere in the country without fear or discrimination.
“Kashmiri students are equal citizens of India. They have every right to study, live and pursue their dreams anywhere in the country without fear, harassment, discrimination or intimidation,” he said.
He further warned that failing to address such allegations could deepen a sense of alienation among Kashmiri students.
“It is deeply saddening that some people want Kashmir, but not Kashmiris,” Khuehami said.
