Jammu and Kashmir Police have launched a preliminary enquiry after a South Kashmir cricketer was seen wearing a helmet with the Palestinian flag during a local tournament in Jammu. The player, Furqan Ul Haq, son of Tajamul Hussain Bhat and a resident of Tangipuna, Pulwama, was spotted during a match at K C Door, Muthi, on the outskirts of Jammu city, a police spokesperson said on Friday.
The police said a 14-day preliminary enquiry under Section 173(3) of the BNSS has been initiated at Domana police station to examine the facts, the intent behind the act, the player’s background, and any potential linkages. The provision allows police to conduct such enquiries with prior approval from a Deputy Superintendent of Police to ensure efficient investigation while avoiding arbitrary action. The enquiry must be completed within 14 days to decide whether a prima facie case exists for further investigation.
The controversy arose after a video of Furqan wearing a helmet with the Palestinian flag went viral on social media. Sources said Furqan, playing for the JK11 team, came out to bat during the fourth over of a match against the Jammu Trailblazers in the Jammu and Kashmir Champions League, organised by Sajid Bhat, also from Kashmir. Furqan and the league organiser were summoned for questioning at Domana police station.
Reacting to the incident, PDP president and former J&K chief minister Mehbooba Mufti posted on social media, “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free. A flag in the wind, bold and free, From the river to the sea,” along with an image of the Palestinian flag.
The Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association clarified that it has no role or association with the tournament, which is privately organised and not recognised by the association. This is the second recent controversy involving cricket leagues in J&K. In November, organisers of the Indian Heaven Premier League reportedly left Srinagar without making payments to players, match officials, commentators, and hotels.
