J&K Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti on Wednesday voiced serious concern over reports that playgrounds and public spaces in Srinagar and other parts of Kashmir were being occupied by security forces.
Speaking to media after visiting Tabela Ground in Chattabal and MET Ground in Baghat Barzulla area of Srinagar city, Mehbooba said that locals, particularly the youth, fear losing these vital open spaces that serve as the few recreational and sporting grounds in densely populated localities.
“There is growing concern among local residents, especially the youth, that these vital open spaces regularly used for sports and community interaction might be taken over by Army or Police forces. This would deprive them of the only available outlets for healthy engagement. I urge both Army and Police authorities to reconsider any such moves. We must ensure that Generation Z is not pushed to the margins. Doing so could have serious long-term repercussions,” Mehbooba said.
She added that preserving such spaces was not merely about land but about hope, opportunity, and a sense of belonging for Kashmir’s younger generation. “Playgrounds are where bonds of community are built and where children can dream of a better future. Taking them away will only deepen the alienation,” she remarked.The PDP President also referred to similar complaints in Sheeri, Baramulla, where locals allege that open grounds have gradually been occupied.
Meanwhile, 15 spectators were detained at a Police Martyrs’ Football Tournament in Srinagar on Tuesday evening after they allegedly failed to stand during the national anthem, an incident their families have attributed to a “low and inaudible” band performance that left them unaware the anthem had begun.Srinagar city guide.
Official sources said that the final of the Police Martyrs Football Tournament was attended by the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, at the Synthetic Turf Football Ground in TRC, Srinagar, in the late afternoon. As per standard protocol, the national anthem was played by a live band during the ceremony. However, officials from the Kothibagh Police Station subsequently detained 15 individuals from the spectator stands for failing to rise during the anthem, the sources said. In the aftermath of the detention, parents and relatives of some of the detained individuals have come forward with an explanation. They claim that the incident was not an act of deliberate disrespect but an unfortunate misunderstanding.
“The national anthem was played by a band, and from where they were sitting, the sound was very low and unclear,” stated one concerned parent who wished to remain anonymous. “They simply did not hear the anthem begin and were therefore unable to stand in time. It was a genuine mistake, not intentional disrespect.”
The playing of the national anthem at public events is governed by strict protocols, and showing respect by standing is considered a fundamental duty of citizens. The Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, deals with intentional disrespect to the national anthem and the Indian flag.
Follow us
