A preliminary investigation has been launched by the Jammu and Kashmir Police after a cricketer was caught on camera wearing a helmet with a Palestine flag during a local tournament on the outskirts of Jammu. The incident came to light after video footage of the player spread widely on social media, prompting police intervention and interrogation.
– Cricketer Furqan Bhatt wore a helmet displaying the Palestinian flag in J&K Champions League
– He was summoned by police & later banned from the league
Divided by borders, United by Ummah & Terrorism đ€Čđ» pic.twitter.com/x9ACLNnF14
â BALA (@erbmjha) January 1, 2026
Cricketer Under Police Investigation
The player has been identified as Furqan Ul Haq, according to an official statement. The incident occurred while he was playing a cricket match at KC Door, Muthi. Given the sensitive nature of the issue and its potential impact on public order, the police initiated a 14-day preliminary investigation. The case is being examined under Section 173(3) of the BNSS at Domana Police Station. The investigation aims to ascertain the facts, motives, background of the individual, and any possible links.
Furqan is a resident of South Kashmir and was participating in a local tournament known as the Jammu and Kashmir Champions League. He was representing JK11s against the Jammu Trailblazers. Apart from Furqan, the tournament organiser, Sajit Bhat, was also questioned by the police.
The Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association clarified that the tournament was privately organised and stated that it did not fall under its jurisdiction. Meanwhile, the BJP has demanded a thorough investigation.
