Palestinian Flag Display During Jammu Match Triggers Police Probe Into Player, Organiser
The Jammu and Kashmir Police have summoned a local cricketer and a tournament organiser after a Palestinian flag was seen during a private cricket match in Jammu. The incident came to light when television cameras captured the flag displayed on the front of a player’s helmet while he was batting. Officials confirmed the matter is under active examination.
Official Statement Confirms Questioning
According to an official statement, “One cricket player and organiser of the tournament has been called for questioning by J&K Police regarding the use of the Palestine flag on his helmet during a cricket match at a private tournament in Jammu.” Police said the focus is on understanding how and why the flag was displayed.
Who is Being Questioned and Where it Happened
Sources said that the cricketer under questioning has been identified as Furqan Bhat. The incident occurred during a match between JK11 Kings and Jammu Trailblazers in the ongoing Jammu and Kashmir Champions League. The league is a locally organised event and is not affiliated with any recognised national or international cricket body.
Focus on Permissions and Tournament Rules
Police officials said the questioning aims to determine whether any permissions were obtained and if tournament guidelines were violated. Authorities are also assessing the intent behind displaying the Palestinian flag during a sporting event. Officials stressed that the process is currently limited to fact-finding and verification, with no immediate punitive action taken so far.
Police Stress Verification, No Immediate Action
As per a senior officer, “Police are verifying the facts and investigating the matter.” The Jammu and Kashmir Police Action, officials said, will depend entirely on the outcome of this verification. Any future steps will be decided only after due diligence and a clear understanding of the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Pattern of Sensitivity Around Public Displays
Among the Indian public sensitivity there is the Palestinian Flag Incident at the forefront. July 2025 saw the police arrest in Uttar Pradesh's Deoria and Agra due to comparable incidents during religious processions.
In contrast to these incidents, the Jammu cricket match indicates that even private sporting activities are being monitored and require strict observance of the local laws and regulations.
/industry-wired/media/agency_attachments/2024/12/04/2024-12-04t130344212z-iw-new.png)
/industry-wired/media/agency_attachments/2024/12/04/2024-12-04t130332454z-iw-new.jpg)
/industry-wired/media/media_files/2026/01/02/j-k-police-summon-cricketer-after-palestinian-flag-appears-in-jammu-match-2026-01-02-15-48-06.jpg)