Following threats, Kashmiri students flee hostels, students' bodies step in with support across India

In the wake of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, a disturbing wave of targeted harassment, intimidation, and violence against Kashmiri students has erupted across several Indian cities.

The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) has reported receiving over 1,000 distress calls from students fearing for their safety, prompting an exodus of students from hostels and colleges.

Fuelled by hate campaigns on social media and threats from right-wing groups, students have been labelled as "terrorists" and told to vacate their accommodations.

JKSA has set up emergency helplines and mobilized support teams to assist affected students and engage with local authorities. In several videos surfaced on social media, right-wing/BJP leaders can be heard threatening Kashmiri students.

Dehradun, Uttarakhand: “Leave or face consequences”

In Dehradun, members of the Hindu Raksha Dal circulated threatening videos, giving Kashmiri Muslim students an ultimatum to leave the city or face violence. Panic ensued, with several students rushing to Jolly Grant Airport seeking refuge.

Colleges reportedly received anonymous threat letters as students were branded "terrorists." According to a Times of India report, at least six Kashmiri students have already left for the Valley.

Derabassi: hostel turned battleground

At the Universal Group of Institutions in Derabassi, Punjab, students from Kashmir were attacked in their hostel late at night on 24 April by a mob wielding sharp weapons.

Eyewitnesses said students were physically assaulted, their clothes torn, and at least one suffered serious injuries. The attackers included both local residents and fellow students, pointing to a deepening communal divide.

Congress’ student wing NSUI intervened promptly to assist the Kashmiri students who were attacked.

Noida & Prayagraj: evictions and assaults

A student from Kashmir studying at Amity University, Noida, was allegedly beaten severely. In Prayagraj, multiple Kashmiri tenants were ordered by landlords to vacate immediately, citing vague “security concerns”. Some students were evicted under pressure, highlighting a pattern of discrimination driven by fear and bigotry. The Yogi government has, however, assured that the action will be taken against the perpetrators.

Himachal Pradesh: intimidation in campuses

At Arni University in Kathghar (Indora), Kangra, students from Kashmir reported being harassed and physically assaulted by local students and residents. Threats and abuse were common, and several were forced to vacate hostels under duress.

National response: solidarity and helplines

In Delhi, the All India Students’ Association (AISA) has launched a dedicated helpline for Kashmiri students enrolled in major universities like DU, JNU, AUD, and Jamia.

Even RSS' student wing ABVP has launched the help line number.

In Punjab, the United Sikh Students Federation (USSF) issued a statement urging calm and compassion. “These are difficult times. Our condolences are with the victims’ families. But we must reject hate and collective blame,” the statement read.

In addition, several lawyers and student bodies across the country have come forward to offer shelter and legal support to Kashmiri students facing threats and eviction from their accommodations, highlighting a broader commitment to defend the rights and dignity of Kashmiri students.