Police in India-administered Kashmir have placed cricketer Furkanul Haq under surveillance after a video showing him playing with a Palestinian flag sticker on his helmet went viral on social media. Authorities summoned him for questioning on Friday and initiated a 14-day preliminary inquiry to verify the facts, his intent, and any possible links. Police said the action was taken considering the sensitivity of the issue and its potential impact on public order. Under Indian law, such an inquiry can be launched with approval from a deputy superintendent for offenses punishable by three to seven years in prison.

The incident occurred during a Jammu and Kashmir Champions League match in Muthi, Jammu, where Haq represented JK Eleven Kings against Jammu Trail Blazers. Reports said he was asked to leave the field after opposing players objected to the helmet sticker. The Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association clarified that the matter involved local players and had no connection with the organization.

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti expressed support for Palestine on social media following the incident.