The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association here on Friday condemned the actions of Faheem Firdous Qureshi, a Kashmiri youth, for posting objectionable and anti-national comments on the microblogging website X (formerly Twitter).
Khuehami in a statement said that that such behavior is unacceptable and undermines the principles of coexistence in our diverse and democratic nation. Whatever he posted frequently against the country and against the social fabric of the country is unacceptable and not tolerable at all.
While not justifying Qureshi’s actions, the Association believes that the charges could have severe consequences for his academic and future prospects. The Association unequivocally condemns Qureshi’s actions and urges all Kashmiri students and youth to refrain from writing provocative content on social media that could add fuel to the fire.
He said that Faheem Qureshi, who was working as an employee at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC), was arrested by Bangalore police. A case was registered against him under IPC Sections 505 (statements conducing to public mischief) and 153B (imputations, assertions prejudicial to national integration). Qureshi, a resident of Platinum City, Peenya, was produced before a court and handed over to police custody for two days.
The Association advises all Kashmiri students studying outside Kashmir to avoid activities that could disrupt peace. Condemning the actions in the strongest terms, Khuehami urged Kashmiri students to focus on their education and not to post provocative content on social media. He emphasized that their life, career, and well-being are more important than social media posts, and they should not give anyone a chance to ruin their career. The objectionable post has hurt people’s sentiments, which is wrong and unjustified. Khuehami also stated that Faheem should refrain from posting anything against the country which could disturb the peace and harmony.
Meanwhile, the National General Secretary of the Association, Ummar Jamal, has urged the Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for clemency in Qureshi’s case. He requested that Qureshi not be booked under severe charges that could destroy his career. The Association believes that providing an opportunity for rehabilitation is essential for the youth’s growth and development. Punishing him will ruin his career. Offer counseling and mentorship instead, allowing him a second chance to learn, he said.
Jamal requested dropping the charges and FIR against Qureshi, emphasizing that reconciliation with students is crucial for engaging with the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. He urged the Chief Minister to give Faheem a chance to reform and to focus on his education and career, rather than being subjected to punitive measures that could ruin his future. We believe in the transformative power of education and the importance of providing young people with second chances, Jamal added.
