PDP Leader Iltija Mufti Defends Cricketer Furqan Ul Haq Amid Controversy
Iltija Mufti, a prominent leader of the People's Democratic Party, has voiced her support for cricketer Furqan Ul Haq, who faced scrutiny for wearing a helmet adorned with the Palestinian flag. She emphasized the importance of discussing Palestine and criticized the current government's restrictions on freedom of speech. Mufti also condemned the BJP's Hindutva ideology and expressed concern over the treatment of individuals in Jammu and Kashmir. Her remarks highlight the ongoing tensions surrounding political expression and civil rights in the region.
| Jan 3, 2026, 17:47 IST
Support for Cricketer Furqan Ul Haq
The leader of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), Iltija Mufti, has publicly supported cricketer Furqan Ul Haq, who faced backlash for displaying the Palestinian flag on his helmet during a tournament. Iltija stated that discussing the situation in Palestine is not wrong. It is important to note that the Jammu and Kashmir police initiated a preliminary investigation on Friday after videos and images of Furqan wearing the helmet surfaced online.
Freedom of Expression Concerns
When asked to comment on the issue, Iltija Mufti expressed frustration, saying, "We are summoned for every statement. Are we not allowed to speak freely? What is wrong with discussing Palestine?" She also shared her views on various other topics.
Criticism of Government Actions
The daughter of PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti told reporters, "Look at London, Europe, or America, where protests against the massacre in Gaza are taking place, while an entire generation is being wiped out." She added, "Here, people are being arrested for minor issues, and even VPNs are being restricted. Various actions are being taken under the guise of law. The rule of law has vanished here."
Response to BJP's Ideology
In response to a question regarding the BJP's alleged statement about not allowing Hamas ideology to flourish in Jammu and Kashmir, Iltija Mufti asserted that the BJP's Hindutva ideology would not be tolerated in the Union Territory. She stated, "We will not accept Hindutva here. If you force us to chant 'Jai Shri Ram' or 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai,' we will not comply. Kashmiri students and shawl sellers are being attacked in Himachal Pradesh and Haryana, but we will not accept your Hindutva here."
Concerns Over Women's Rights
Iltija referenced a recently viral video of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, where he was seen pulling off a Muslim woman's veil during an event. She questioned, "What are they doing? Their associates are pulling off women's veils." Claiming widespread "despair" among the people of Jammu and Kashmir, she remarked, "VPNs have been banned, and we do not have the freedom to speak openly. The elected government is doing nothing; they do not even attempt to raise their voices."
Accusations Against Omar Abdullah
She accused Chief Minister Omar Abdullah of implementing the BJP's agenda in Jammu and Kashmir, stating, "Why is Omar not talking about Article 370? They only discuss the status of the state. They are pushing the BJP's agenda."