JKSA urges Maharashtra CM to intervene in harassment case of Kashmiri Pandit student leader

Srinagar, Sep 15, KNT: The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) on Monday appealed to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to intervene after its Kashmiri Pandit Wing President, Krishna Saproo, allegedly faced targeted harassment and intimidation in Pune.

According to the Association, Saproo, who has been working for the welfare of displaced Kashmiri Pandit students and youth, was subjected to repeated threats during and after a book discussion at Pagdandi Book Café in Pune on “Loa’l Kashmir,” authored by Mehak Jamal. The group alleged that Saproo was threatened with physical assault and warned that he would be “thrashed and beaten” if seen in Pune or beyond.

Describing the incident as “deeply disturbing,” the JKSA called it a dangerous attempt to muzzle voices advocating peace, dialogue, and democratic values. National Convenor Nasir Khuehami condemned the harassment, saying, “Krishna Saproo has been tirelessly working for the upliftment of Kashmiri Pandit youth. Instead of support, he is being intimidated, threatened with assault, and vilified. This is unacceptable in a democracy like India, which prides itself on diversity of opinions and constitutional freedoms.”

The Association urged the Maharashtra Chief Minister to ensure Saproo’s safety and direct law enforcement agencies to take strict action against those responsible. “We call upon the State Police Chief and the concerned IG to provide adequate protection and carry out a fair, transparent investigation. Safeguarding those who work for marginalized communities is both a legal responsibility and a moral duty of the state,” the statement said.

It further emphasized that books, debates, and the free exchange of ideas are the lifeblood of democracy. “Threatening individuals for participating in a book discussion not only undermines constitutional traditions but also discourages youth from engaging in democratic discourse,” the Association noted.

Reaffirming its commitment, the JKSA added, “We are living in a democratic country governed by constitutional values. Everyone has the right to speak, write, and think freely. Intimidation and threats against students, writers, or community leaders go against the very spirit of our democracy. Such acts must be condemned unequivocally.” [KNT]