Urges President to intervene; appeals to pol leaders to unite for students’ dignity
SRINAGAR: Prominent social and student rights activist, Er Ehtisham Khan, also serving as the Coordinator for Jammu and Kashmir of Akhil Bharat Rachnatmak Samaj (ABRS), has launched a nationwide signature campaign urging the President of India, Droupadi Murmu to intervene and ensure the protection and safety of Kashmiri students studying outside the valley.
The campaign was launched on Thursday, marking the death anniversary of the organisation’s founder, Padma Vibhushan Late Smt. Nirmala Deshpande, a former Member of Parliament and a lifelong champion of peace, brotherhood and communal harmony. Reflecting on her teachings, Ehtisham stated,
“As someone inspired by Didi Nirmala Deshpande Ji’s Gandhian values, it is my solemn duty to act upon what she lived for. Today, in her memory, we appeal for peace and humanity—for dignity and justice for every Kashmiri student,” Khan said in a statement issued here.
Ehtisham Khan has been at the forefront of efforts to highlight the plight of students in the wake of distressing videos and incidents surfacing from different parts of the country. From writing to key Union Ministers, the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, and the Lieutenant Governor, to coordinating with national student organisations, Khan has taken consistent steps to ensure students’ concerns are raised at the highest forums.
He expressed deep gratitude to Mr Bibhuti Kumar Mishra, National President of ABRS, for writing to the Hon’ble President of India and backing this initiative with conviction. He also acknowledged the support of the national executives of ABRS for their trust and encouragement throughout this process.
“Every Kashmiri student is as much a part of the nation’s soul as any other citizen. We are not separate from the pain the nation feels—we are part of it,” Khan said. “This is not just a campaign. It is a voice—for unity, for the safety of our students, and for the soul of our country. It is a call to remember that in times of pain, our response must be humanity—not hate.”
Importantly, Er Khan made a sincere appeal to all political leaders, irrespective of party lines, to unite on a common platform for the cause of students. He said, “This is not the sole responsibility of the elected government but of every single public representative. I appeal to the Hon’ble Chief Minister, the Advisor to the LG, and all leaders across the political spectrum to rise above politics and stand together to uphold the dignity and safety of our youth across India.”
Ehtisham Khan, who has consistently raised student issues with honesty and compassion, continues to inspire youth across Jammu & Kashmir and beyond. He urged all citizens, students, educators, and civil society members to join the campaign and sign the petition as a step towards peace, justice, and constitutional unity.