Jammu and Kashmir Police Investigate Cricketer for Wearing Palestinian Flag Helmet

A cricketer in Jammu and Kashmir is under police scrutiny after wearing a helmet adorned with the Palestinian flag during a local tournament. The incident has sparked political outrage, with calls for action from various parties. The Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association has distanced itself from the event, emphasizing it was privately organized. As the police continue their investigation, the implications of this act on India's diplomatic stance are being debated. This situation raises questions about the intersection of sports and political expression in sensitive regions. Read on to discover more about the unfolding events and the reactions from various stakeholders.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 2, 2026, 13:09 IST

Police Inquiry into Cricketer's Controversial Helmet

On Thursday, the Jammu and Kashmir Police initiated questioning of a cricketer who donned a helmet featuring the Palestinian flag during a local tournament, as reported by a news outlet.

The athlete, Furqan Bhat, participated earlier that day in the Jammu and Kashmir Champions League held in the Jammu district.

This event was organized by Sajid Bhat, a resident of Kashmir, who was also called to the Domana police station for questioning.

Following the circulation of match videos on social media, there were calls for action against Bhat, according to an unnamed player.

As of Thursday evening, no formal complaint had been filed regarding the incident, as per statements from unnamed officials.

The Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association distanced itself from the tournament, clarifying that it was a privately organized affair involving local players, with no spectators permitted.

Brigadier Anil Gupta, the association's official, acknowledged the incident and stated that it was under police jurisdiction, emphasizing that necessary actions would be taken by law enforcement.

The Bharatiya Janata Party also called for action against Bhat, with party MLA RS Pathania condemning the incident as an inappropriate use of a cricket platform to promote a divisive agenda.

Pathania criticized the act, claiming it demonstrated a lack of awareness regarding India's position on the matter.

India has consistently advocated for a two-state solution, aiming for a sovereign and independent Palestine to coexist peacefully alongside Israel.