Pahalgam terror attack: CM Omar Abdullah raises issue of safety of Kashmiri students with other states

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said he is in touch with his counterparts in states where reports have emerged of Kashmiri students being harassed following the Pahalgam terror attack.

 

Abdullah assured that his government was coordinating with the concerned state governments.

 

“I am also in touch with my counterpart Chief Ministers in these states and have requested that they take extra care,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter).

 

Reports suggest that Kashmiri students studying in various institutions across India are facing harassment. In some cases, landlords have asked students to vacate rented accommodations.

 

Thousands of Kashmiri students pursue higher education across India in various disciplines. 

 

Many are beneficiaries of the Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme, which covers tuition, boarding, and lodging. The scheme, started by the UPA government under late Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, has so far benefited over 50,000 students, helping them follow the academic and career paths of their choice.

 

There has also been an increase in the number of students from other states enrolling in engineering and medical colleges in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly after the abrogation of Article 370.

 

In response to the current situation, the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) has issued an urgent advisory for students studying outside the Union Territory.

 

The association has urged students to remain calm and cautious during this sensitive period. They have been advised to avoid political discussions, refrain from posting sensitive content on social media, and stay indoors unless absolutely necessary, to ensure their safety.

 

Nasir Khuehami, National Convenor of the JKSA, said in a statement, “We appeal to all Kashmiri students to maintain calm, avoid political debates or provocative posts online, and refrain from going out unnecessarily. The current situation is volatile and may escalate, posing a serious risk to your safety”.

India