Ahead of India-Pak match, JKSA advises Kashmiri students to avoid social media discussions

SRINAGAR: Ahead of India-Pakistan cricket match in the Asia Cup, Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) on Saturday issued an advisory to Kashmiri students across the country to refrain from making social media posts that could land them in trouble.The advisory comes in the backdrop of Kashmiri students getting into trouble in other states in the past for allegedly cheering for Pakistani sportspersons during matches with India.In a statement widely circulated on social media, Nasir Khuehami, national convenor of the association, said Kashmiri students should treat the match “as just another sporting event and avoid any actions that might lead to unnecessary complications”. They should remain cautious as there are political connotations and deep emotions attached to an India-Pakistan match, he added.Alluding to the Pakistani team without naming it, Khuehami said; “Students must understand that by openly cheering for any particular team, they may find themselves in a vulnerable position… It is crucial for them to exercise caution and prioritise their safety on campuses and in their accommodations, keeping in mind the well-being of their families back home.” The JKSA convener pointed out that in the past, dozens of Kashmiri students were detained, arrested, summoned or booked for their social media activity or engaging in heated debates during India-Pakistan matches. “Such incidents have led to serious academic and legal consequences, impacting their education and future prospects,” he said.There is also a huge resentment among some sections in the country “with respect to this cricket match, in the backdrop of the Pahalgam terror attack and the eventual escalation of conflict”, Khuehami said. Despite Kashmiris coming out overwhelmingly in support of the Pahalgam victims and strongly against terrorism, there were several incidents in other parts of India “where students from Jammu and Kashmir suffered the most”, he added.“This particular cricket match will not be seen merely from a sports point of view but will inevitably carry political, emotional and nationalistic angles. We, therefore, reiterate the message of peace, caution, and harmony during this sensitive time,” he stated.