The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association vehemently condemned the actions of a student, Sohrab Qayoom, who used objectionable remarks about the demolished Babri Masjid and Ram Mandir in the harshest terms. In a statement, National Convenor of the Association, Nasir Khuehami, expressed deep concern over the potential consequences this incident may have on Sohrab Qayoom’s future.
Khuehami in a statement to news agency Kashmir Dot Com said that Sohrab Qayoom, a student from the Poonch area of Jammu and Kashmir, is currently enrolled in the B Pharmacy course at Mewar University, Chittorgarh, Rajasthan, under the Indian Army’s Special Scholarship Scheme. This scheme was launched as part of Operation Sadbhavana with the goal of providing educational opportunities to underprivileged students. He was arrested by Chittorgarh Rajasthan Police and is currently lodged at the Gangrar Police Station. FIR U/S 151, 153A, 295A, and 505 have been registered against the student.
Such behaviour is not only unacceptable but also undermines the principles of coexistence in our diverse and democratic nation. While not seeking to justify his actions, the Association believes that the charges brought against him could have severe consequences for his academic and future prospects. The Association unequivocally condemns the student’s actions and urges all Kashmiri students to refrain from writing provocative content on social media that could add fuel to the fire.
Khuehami requested Home Minister Amit Shah and Rajasthan Chief Minister Bajanlal Sharma to consider Sohrab Qayoom’s case on humanitarian grounds. The charges and FIR against him could ruin his future, and the Association believes that providing an opportunity for rehabilitation is essential for the youth’s growth and development. He requested dropping the charges and FIR against Sohrab Qayoom.
Khuehami acknowledged that Sohrab Qayoom’s actions may have been driven by immaturity rather than malice, and the Association believes in the possibility of reform and redemption. The impact of these charges on his academic and future career prospects cannot be understated, and there is fear it may result in irreversible damage to his life. While not justifying Qayoom’s actions, the Association emphasizes that there is no place for such behavior in a democratic country and civilized society. They advocate for a fair and just approach that does not lead to the assassination of his career, he added.
It is evident that Mr. Sohrab Qayoom may lack a comprehensive understanding of the political implications of his actions. The Association requests leniency, considering his immaturity and lack of political awareness. They believe that by providing opportunities for rehabilitation and by dropping the charges against Qayoom, the government can play a pivotal role in reshaping his future and connecting him with the hopes and aspirations of progress. This will not only benefit him but also contribute to building a society where the youth are key drivers of development and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir, he added further. (KDC)
