The Oxford Union is facing significant backlash over its scheduled debate titled "This House Believes in the Independent State of Kashmir," set for November 14, 2024. The event has sparked outrage primarily from the Indian and British Hindu communities, who argue that it endorses separatist sentiments and undermines India's sovereignty over the Kashmir region.

The advocacy group INSIGHT UK has formally condemned the debate, asserting that it risks legitimizing extremist ideologies. They criticized the Union for inviting speakers with alleged ties to terrorism, specifically Muzzammil Ayyub Thakur and Zafar Khan, both associated with the Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF), a group with a history of violence. INSIGHT UK described the debate as "deeply troubling," emphasizing that it could amplify narratives that challenge India's territorial integrity.

Muzzammil Ayyub Thakur, one of the invited speakers, is known for promoting a pro-Pakistani narrative regarding Kashmir and has been linked to disinformation campaigns about the region. Critics highlight his connections to organizations accused of terrorism, raising ethical questions about the Oxford Union's decision to host him.

Kashmir has been a contentious issue between India and Pakistan since partition in 1947, leading to multiple conflicts and ongoing violence. The region's status is recognized as integral to India under its Constitution, making debates questioning this status particularly sensitive.

Prem Shankar Jha is an influential Indian economist, journalist, and writer, born on December 22, 1938. He has a distinguished career that spans several prestigious roles, including serving as a media advisor to former Prime Minister V. P. Singh of India, and holding positions at the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the World Bank.

In journalism, Jha has held prominent editorial positions at several major Indian newspapers, including Hindustan Times, The Times of India, The Economic Times, and Financial Express. His work has often focused on economic issues and political analysis, particularly concerning Kashmir and Indian democracy.

Jha is participating in a debate at the Oxford Union titled "This house believes in an independent state of Kashmir," where he will speak against the motion. This event highlights ongoing tensions regarding Kashmir's political status and reflects Jha's long-standing engagement with this critical issue in Indian politics.

Opponents argue that academic platforms like the Oxford Union should not be used to propagate divisive ideologies or undermine national sovereignty. They stress that while freedom of speech is vital, it must be balanced with responsibility to avoid endorsing extremist views.

The situation illustrates a broader conflict over narratives surrounding Kashmir and highlights the challenges academic institutions face in navigating sensitive geopolitical issues.