Palestine Flag Row: A cricket player and organiser of the tournament has been called for questioning by the Jammu and Kashmir Police regarding the use of the Palestine flag on his helmet during a cricket match at a private tournament in Jammu. The Domana Police Station questioned the accused amid outrage over Furqan Bhat, a local cricketer's act.

Bhat allegedly used the Palestinian flag on his helmet during a domestic league match in Jammu and Kashmir. While representing the local JK11 team against the Jammu Trailblazers in the Jammu and Kashmir Champions League, he allegedly wore a helmet with a Palestinian flag, sparking a controversy.

ALSO READ: Bihar Minister Directs Timely Completion, Proper Maintenance Of Building Projects; Focus On Quality And Upkeep

As soon as the row snowballed, Bhat and the organiser were summoned for questioning by the Jammu Rural Police. According to the media reports, more people linked to the tournament are likely to be questioned by the police authorities.

Why Is Row In Supporting Palestine?

Supporting Palestine is not an illegal act in India, but politicising cricket or any game is prohibited by the law and ethics of the game. The MEA officially said, "India’s policy towards Palestine has been long-standing and includes support for a negotiated two-state solution, and the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable State of Palestine within secure and recognised borders, living side by side in peace with Israel. India also supports Palestine’s membership of the UN." India strongly condemned the terror attacks on Israel on 7 October 2023 and also the loss of civilian lives in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.

ALSO READ: Smog Stories: Aravalli Crucial In Fight Against Air Pollution; Know How Much Of The Ancient Hills Has Delhi-NCR Lost

The row in the Jammu and Kashmir erupted when the two warring sides, Israel and Hamas, accepted a ceasefire and the restoration works were underway in Gaza.