Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have initiated a formal investigation after a cricketer was seen sporting a helmet adorned with a Palestinian flag during a local match. The incident, which took place in Jammu, has led police to summon both the player and the tournament organiser for detailed questioning.
Incident at Unrecognised Tournament Draws Police Scrutiny
The controversial display occurred on Wednesday during a game between JK11 Kings and Jammu Trailblazers. The match was part of the privately organised Jammu and Kashmir Champions League. Television and social media footage captured a batsman at the crease wearing a helmet with the flag prominently displayed on its front. The viral images quickly caught the attention of law enforcement agencies.
In an official statement, the Jammu and Kashmir Police confirmed, "One cricket player and organiser of the tournament has been called for questioning regarding the use of the Palestine flag on his helmet during a cricket match at a private tournament in Jammu." The player has been identified as Furqan Bhat, while the tournament organiser is Zahid Bhat.
Police Examine Intent and Tournament Legitimacy
Senior police officials stated that the probe is focused on multiple angles. Investigators are examining the circumstances that led to the flag being displayed and verifying if any necessary permissions were obtained. The intent behind showcasing the symbol during a sporting event is also being assessed, along with potential violations of tournament guidelines.
"Police are verifying the facts and investigating the matter," a senior official said, noting that no immediate action has been taken. Any further legal steps will depend on the findings of the ongoing due diligence process. Following the image going viral, police personnel reportedly rushed to the match venue and have also begun probing the authorisation of the tournament itself.
JKCA Distances Itself, Highlights BCCI Rules
The Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) has firmly distanced itself from the event. Brigadier Anil Gupta (Retd), Member Administration of the JKCA, clarified to IANS that the league is not recognised by the state cricket body or any national authority. He further noted that the player involved, Furqan Bhat, is not registered with the JKCA or its affiliates.
This clarification is significant as Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) rules strictly prohibit registered players from participating in unrecognised leagues. This incident marks the second time a privately organised cricket league from Jammu and Kashmir has faced scrutiny in recent months. It follows the collapse of the Indian Heaven Premier League in Srinagar, where organisers allegedly abandoned the event midway, leaving participants in a lurch.
The police investigation continues as authorities seek to determine the full context and implications of the flag display at the sporting event.
