The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association has formally written to the Bhagwant Mann, seeking his urgent intervention after Kashmiri students studying at CT University in Ludhiana reportedly received alleged threats related to Ramadan meals. The association expressed deep concern over the incident and urged the state government to ensure the safety, dignity and religious rights of Kashmiri and other Muslim students on campus.
In its letter to the Punjab Chief Minister, the association said it was “troubled by reports of intimidation” and called for immediate action to protect students from harassment, ensure proper investigation and hold accountable those responsible. The appeal highlights the importance of fostering a safe academic environment where all students, irrespective of religion or region, can pursue education without fear.
According to the association, the issue began when Kashmiri Muslim students at CT University planned a Ramadan iftar meal gathering on campus. The gathering, meant to mark the holy month of Ramadan, was organized as a cultural and religious event for students observing the fast.
The association claimed that certain individuals at or around the university made objectionable comments and threats targeting the students’ plans for the Ramadan meal. The alleged comments were interpreted as attempts to intimidate the Kashmiri students and dissuade them from observing their religious practices freely.
Though the association has not publicly named individuals accused of issuing threats, it emphasized that the incident had caused “significant anxiety and distress” among the students involved. The letter added that such behavior, if left unchecked, could create a hostile atmosphere on campus and adversely affect inter-community harmony.
Students associated with the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association told media that the reported events have had a “disruptive impact” on the academic environment at CT University. Several Kashmiri students said they felt “unsafe and unwelcome” after the alleged remarks, which they believed were connected to their Ramadan activities.
They appealed to the university administration to take impartial action and ensure their rights are protected in line with constitutional guarantees of freedom of religion and expression. Some students expressed frustration that their concerns had not been addressed promptly at the institutional level, leading to the decision to appeal directly to the state government.
Officials from CT University were approached for comment but have not provided an official public response at this time. The absence of a clear statement from the university administration has added to uncertainty among students and parents regarding steps taken to resolve the issue.
Local community leaders and student organizations have called for calm and respect for all faiths and cultures, emphasizing that campuses should remain inclusive spaces free from harassment and discrimination.
Legal experts note that India’s Constitution guarantees the right to freely practice religion and observe religious events without fear of discrimination. Any form of intimidation based on faith could potentially violate fundamental rights and attract legal action.
The association’s appeal to the Chief Minister underscores the expectation that state authorities will uphold constitutional values and enforce law and order to ensure safety and harmony across diverse student communities.
The matter comes at a time when incidents involving students and inter-community tensions have drawn heightened public attention across various parts of the country. Political observers say such issues can escalate quickly if not addressed transparently and responsibly by educational institutions, law enforcement agencies and political leaders.
Several civil society groups have urged the university and state authorities to hold discussions with all stakeholders, mediate peacefully and prevent further escalation.
The J&K Students Association has asked for a formal meeting with the Punjab Chief Minister or his representatives to discuss the issue and outline measures for ensuring the safety and dignity of all students on campus.
The association also called on the university to institute a proper inquiry into the alleged threats and take appropriate disciplinary action if the allegations are substantiated.
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