Farooq Abdullah Urges Amit Shah to Withdraw Cases Against Youth Held After Kashmir Protests

Farooq Abdullah , president of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC) , has appealed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah to withdraw criminal cases registered against several youths detained during protests in Jammu and Kashmir over the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei . The issue has triggered political debate in the region, with the NC urging a sympathetic approach towards the detained protesters.

Police had registered FIRs against several demonstrators following protests that erupted in parts of Kashmir after news of the killing in Iran . According to reports, the protesters were booked under various charges related to unlawful assembly , disturbing public order and raising provocative slogans during the demonstrations.

In a statement, Abdullah urged the Union Home Ministry and security agencies to review the FIRs filed against the youths and consider releasing those detained, particularly students . He said many of those taken into custody were very young and their future should not be jeopardised because of actions taken during emotionally charged protests.

The former chief minister acknowledged that maintaining law and order was essential but stressed that authorities should also understand the sentiments behind the demonstrations. According to him, many of the youths who came out on the streets were expressing distress and concern over developments in Iran, a country that holds cultural and religious significance for many people in Kashmir.

Abdullah said most of those detained were young boys , many still pursuing their studies, and warned that saddling them with criminal cases at such a formative stage of their lives could have serious long-term consequences . He said a compassionate approach by the government would help reassure families and prevent alienation among the youth.

The issue has also taken on a political dimension, with the NC accusing authorities of adopting a harsh approach against protesters. Party leaders argue that the demonstrations were largely driven by emotional reactions rather than organised political mobilisation.

Expressing hope for a conciliatory response, Abdullah said the administration and the Union Home Ministry should act with wisdom and sensitivity while reviewing the cases. Such a move, he added, would help strengthen peace and stability while ensuring that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir are encouraged to pursue education and constructive engagement.