Shopian: In the aftermath of seven students from Sher-e-Kashmir University’s Department of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry being booked on charges related to the alleged celebration of Australia’s victory over India in the recent World Cup finals, former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Mehbooba Mufti, voiced her opinion on Wednesday, asserting that the spirit of the game should be maintained and not transformed into a criminal act.
According to several independent reports, the students face charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, IPC Section 13, IPC Section 505, and IPC Section 506.
However, the police later issued a comprehensive rebuttal emphasising that the case extended beyond mere “pro-Pakistan” slogans.
Mufti pointed out that when India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, was seen celebrating Australia’s World Cup victory, it was not deemed a crime. She questioned why Kashmiris are viewed with suspicion when supporting teams other than India.
Mufti, who was adressing workers in Zainapora Shopian,added, “There is mistrust in their [BJP’s] hearts, which is why the BJP-led government of India consistently regards Kashmiris with suspicion. The government harbors numerous insecurities concerning Kashmiris. The imposition of UAPA on seven Kashmiris should be revoked, and the future of our youth should not be squandered,” said the PDP president.
Addressing the incident at the National Institute of Technology (NIT), where a student posted a derogatory video, Mufti acknowledged the need for action.
However, she emphasised that both SKUAST and NIT students involved in any offense should be given an opportunity to rectify their mistakes, ensuring that their futures are not wasted.
