‘We are safe’, Kashmiri students clear the air after minor clash at Mohali university

Mohali: A minor clash between students at a private university in Lalru, Mohali district, sparked a wave of concern and media attention in Jammu and Kashmir, after a few Kashmiri students posted videos on social media alleging assault and insecurity. However, subsequent clarifications from both the authorities and students confirmed that the situation was misrepresented and that all students are safe.
The incident occurred following a friendly cricket match and a candlelight march held in memory of the victims of the Pahalgam attack, in which students, including Kashmiris, participated jointly. However, a verbal altercation broke out later in the hostel premises, leading to a minor scuffle among a small group of students.
Initially, some Kashmiri students shared videos and messages on social media, alleging they were mistreated by local students and feared for their safety. These posts quickly gained traction and were aired on news channels in Jammu and Kashmir, triggering a political response with several leaders expressing concern on social media.

In response, the police, district administration, and university authorities intervened promptly. Following a thorough investigation, the police confirmed that no major violence occurred, no injuries were reported, and no weapons were involved.
Derabassi DSP Bikramjit Singh Brar said, "It was a minor clash between hostel mates. The students had played a cricket match earlier and participated in the candlelight march together. There is no communal or regional angle to the incident, and the situation was resolved amicably."
To calm growing concerns, a group of Kashmiri students released a video statement, assuring their families and the public that they were safe and that the incident had been blown out of proportion. They explicitly stated that the clash had no connection to the Pahalgam killings and urged people not to link the two events.
Earlier, a video of a Kashmiri female student of the university went viral on social media seeking help. Later in the evening, she posted another video claiming that she is very safe and secure and Mohali administration and police visited her and enquired about her well-being.
Nasir Khuehami, spokesperson, J&K Students Union, said, "We have got the earlier video removed from Facebook. We have got assurance from Punjab Police as well as political leaders, ensuring safety and wellbeing of Kashmiri students in Punjab."
Nasir said, "Everyone is currently safe, and we're visiting different areas to ensure their well-being. If there's any issue—please don't hesitate to contact the police or us. I request all Kashmiri students, workers, or traders in Punjab—if anyone is facing any issue, please contact your local police."
President of NSUI Punjab Isherpreet Singh, who reportedly intervened to ensure student's safety and well-being, emphasized the importance of national unity, saying that all Indians—from Kashmir to Kanyakumari—are brothers and sisters.
University authorities are reportedly taking steps to promote dialogue and understanding among students from diverse backgrounds to prevent any recurrence of such misunderstandings.
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