Srinagar, October 1, 2025 – Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today hailed the indomitable spirit of Jammu & Kashmir’s security forces while felicitating players at the grand closing ceremony of the 20th J&K Police Martyr’s Memorial Football Tournament, where J&K Bank clinched the championship title in a hard-fought final.The event, organised annually by the Jammu & Kashmir Police to honour the supreme sacrifices of its bravehearts, drew a large gathering of sports enthusiasts, police officials, and dignitaries at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar. In a thrilling finale, J&K Bank FC secured a decisive 2-0 victory over Kashmir Avengers FC, with goals from Akif Reshi and Furkaan Nabi— the latter also earning the Man of the Match accolade for his stellar performance. The third-place playoff saw J&K Police edge out Downtown FC 8-7 in a nail-biting tie-breaker, with Muzamil Farooq (jersey no. 01) recognized as Man of the Match.LG Sinha, addressing the audience, interacted warmly with the players, handing over trophies, cash prizes, and mementos to the winners, runners-up, and standout performers.
He saluted the selfless service and ultimate sacrifices of J&K Police personnel, Army, and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) in fostering security, stability, and prosperity in the region. “Jammu Kashmir is a symbol of the tradition of sacrifice by our brave warriors from army, police, and CAPFs,” Sinha remarked, emphasizing that preserving the memories of martyrs is a collective responsibility of the forces and the public alike. “Society can never repay the debt of soldiers’ immense sacrifices for the country, but we must ensure to honor our fallen heroes and their families.”In a firm stance against anti-national elements, the Lieutenant Governor declared, “Those who speak the language of separatists and terrorists insult the sacrifices of our martyrs and hurt their soul. Strictest possible action as per the law of the land will be taken against such elements.” He added that the land of Jammu & Kashmir is “saturated with the blood and sacrifice” of its defenders for the nation’s integrity, vowing no leniency for those who disrespect India’s sovereignty or the memories of police martyrs.
The tournament, which featured top-tier football talent including renowned international players like Sahil Kursheed Malik, Tajamul Islam, Jehangir Ahmad, Faizan Waheed, and Sahil Manzoor, not only showcased athletic prowess but also served as a poignant tribute to the region’s unsung heroes. Among the attendees were Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat, Special DG Coordination S.J.M. Gillani, ADGP Armed Anand Jain, senior police and civil administration officials, members of the Football Association, club representatives, prominent sports personalities, and a vibrant youth contingent.This edition of the J&K Police Martyr’s Memorial Football Tournament underscores the administration’s commitment to promoting sports as a tool for youth empowerment, community bonding, and national integration, while keeping alive the legacy of valor and resilience in Jammu & Kashmir.
