JAMMU, Feb 19: Two Congress legislators staged a protest at the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly on Thursday, voicing strong concern over what they described as harassment of Kashmiris outside the Union Territory and demanding immediate measures to ensure their safety.
MLAs Irfan Lone and Iftikhar Ahmed demonstrated on the stairs of the Assembly complex, holding placards and pamphlets that read “Stop harassment of Kashmiris.” They were joined by legislators from Rajouri, who expressed solidarity with the concerns raised.
The protest comes in the backdrop of reports alleging that Kashmiri nursing students at a university in Rajasthan were subjected to assault during a protest linked to course recognition issues. According to the Congress MLAs, at least four students were injured in the incident, and a female student was allegedly manhandled. The legislators described the reported episode as deeply disturbing and said it had caused anxiety among families in Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing the media, Lone and Ahmed stated that the matter would be formally raised in the Assembly to seek clarity and accountability. They emphasised that students pursuing education outside the Union Territory should feel safe and protected, irrespective of regional or cultural identity.
The MLAs called upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to take cognisance of the issue and ensure that such incidents are thoroughly investigated. They urged the central authorities to put in place safeguards that would prevent any form of discrimination or violence against Kashmiri students and residents in other states.
Stressing that education is a pathway to empowerment and national integration, the legislators said that any reported targeting of students undermines the spirit of unity and mutual respect. They added that the safety and dignity of citizens must remain a priority, particularly for young people who travel across the country for academic and professional opportunities.
The protest concluded peacefully, with the MLAs reiterating their commitment to pursue the issue through legislative channels and to seek assurances from the concerned authorities.