Cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir carrying the flag of PalestineImage Credit source: Screenshot/Viral Video
An Indian cricketer’s attempt to express sympathy and support for Palestine proved costly. A cricketer who played with the Palestine flag on his helmet during a local tournament going on in Jammu is now in trouble. This local cricketer of Jammu and Kashmir is now facing police action for this act. According to the information, the police has called this cricketer named Furkan Bhatt for questioning in this matter and is investigating the matter.
Helmet with Palestine flag in local tournament
Recently, J&K Champions League tournament is going on in Jammu, in which Furkan Bhatt was also participating with a team. During this time, some photos and videos of Bhatt went viral on social media, which created an uproar. It is seen in these pictures that the helmet which this cricketer was wearing while batting, has the flag of Palestine on it. Generally, Indian cricketers come out wearing the flag of India on their helmet or do not have any flag on it, but this is the first time that they come out wearing the identity of any other country.
Row has broken out during the #JammuKashmir Champions League in #Jammu after a player was spotted displaying the #Palestine flag during a match.
cricketer #FurkanBhatt was seen wearing a helmet featuring the flag, drawing attention and prompting action from authorities. pic.twitter.com/zrFARlPCvQ
— News9 (@News9Tweets) January 1, 2026
What action did the police take?
As soon as this matter came to light, Jammu and Kashmir Police came into action and summoned Furkan Bhatt. Not only the police, but the organizer of this tournament was also called for questioning. J&K Police said in a statement, “J&K Police has called a cricketer and the organizer of the tournament for questioning in connection with the installation of Palestine flag on the helmet during a private tournament in Jammu.” However, at present it is not clear whether the police have called him only for questioning or whether they are going to file any kind of case against him.
According to reports, after this matter came to light, Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) has banned this cricketer. However, the association has distanced itself from this tournament also. JKCA has clearly said that this was a private tournament and it has nothing to do with it.