A housing dispute involving two Kashmiri students in Bhopal escalated after they allegedly faced objections from neighbours over their presence in the locality.
According to the Jammu & Kashmir Students Association (JKSA), the students were reportedly targeted because they are from Jammu & Kashmir and are Muslims. The students allegedly received pressure and threats to vacate their accommodation, while their landlord was also warned to evict them.
The situation reportedly became serious enough for the students to approach the JKSA for help.
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Threats Kept Students Away From Classes
The two students are pursuing pharmacy courses in Bhopal under the Prime Minister’s Special Scholarship Scheme (PMSSS).
JKSA said the alleged threats and pressure left the students afraid to travel to college or move freely outside their accommodation.
The association subsequently raised the matter with Madhya Pradesh Director General of Police Kailash Makwana, seeking immediate intervention and protection for the students.
DGP Orders Police Protection
Taking cognizance of the complaint, DGP Kailash Makwana reportedly made it clear that no individual would be permitted to take the law into their own hands or intimidate students based on their place of origin or religion.
He directed Bhopal Police Commissioner Sanjay Kumar to ensure the safety of the students.
Following the instructions, a police team led by the concerned ACP and Nishatpura SHO Manoj Patwa visited the students at their residence.
The officers heard their concerns and assured them of protection.
Police Question Those Accused of Threatening Students
Police also questioned and summoned individuals allegedly named in the complaint.
Residents of the housing society were counselled on the need to maintain communal harmony and ensure that students are not subjected to discrimination.
JKSA said police have initiated action against people identified in the complaints and that legal proceedings would follow if they are found culpable.
JKSA Welcomes Swift Police Response
JKSA national convenor Nasir Khuehami welcomed the intervention, saying it had helped restore the students’ confidence and allowed them to continue their education without fear.
He said the response from the Madhya Pradesh Police had reinforced faith in the administration and the rule of law.
Khuehami also stressed that Kashmiri students studying outside Jammu & Kashmir are equal citizens and are entitled to safety, dignity and protection.
A Wider Message on Student Safety
The incident has once again highlighted the vulnerability students can face when questions of identity, religion or regional origin spill into everyday life.
With the police stepping in and assuring protection, the immediate crisis for the two students appears to have been brought under control. Authorities have also indicated that action will follow against anyone found responsible for issuing threats.
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