Kashmiri students in various Indian states have reported facing threats and harassment in the aftermath of the deadly attack in Pahalgam, Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), which claimed the lives of 26 people, mostly domestic tourists.
According to the IIOJK Students Association, students in states such as Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh were allegedly told to vacate their rented homes and hostels shortly after the attack.
Convenor Nasir Khuehami stated that some students were physically assaulted, verbally abused, and labelled “terrorists” at a university in Himachal Pradesh.
In Dehradun, approximately 20 Kashmiri Muslim students reportedly fled to the airport after receiving threats from Hindu Raksha Dal, a fringe right-wing group.
The group allegedly warned them of severe consequences if they did not leave the city immediately.
“This is not just about safety. It reflects a coordinated effort to target and vilify students based on their region and identity,” Khuehami said.
Former IIOJK Chief Ministers Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti called on state and central authorities to protect Kashmiri students and traders, urging Union Home Minister Amit Shah to intervene and ensure their safety.
Meanwhile, New Delhi has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan and downgraded diplomatic relations.
