Srinagar — The defacement of a recently installed inauguration plaque bearing the national Ashoka Emblem at the revered Hazratbal Shrine has sparked a political storm in Jammu and Kashmir.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah strongly condemned the act of vandalism but argued that the incident stemmed from a deeper mistake — placing a national emblem at a religious site. He stated that the government emblem is meant for official functions and offices, not shrines or places of worship. Abdullah urged an apology for what he called a misstep that could have been avoided.
Senior National Conference leader Tanvir Sadiq echoed these sentiments, pointing out that installing a sculpted symbol at a shrine contradicts Islamic teachings that prohibit any form of idol-like display. Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti also criticised the move, calling it blasphemous and urging action against those responsible for installing the emblem.
On the other hand, BJP leaders, including Waqf Board chairperson Darakshan Andrabi, condemned the defacement of the plaque, describing it as a “terrorist attack.” They demanded that those responsible face charges under the Public Safety Act. Andrabi defended the use of the emblem, saying it was placed in good faith to mark government involvement in the renovation of the shrine.
The incident has widened political divisions in the Valley, with some parties calling for Andrabi’s resignation and alleging that the installation of the emblem violated the State Emblem of India (Prohibition of Improper Use) Act.
Law enforcement agencies have filed a First Information Report (FIR), and investigations are underway to identify those involved in the vandalism. The controversy has now shifted the debate towards the role of national symbols at religious places and their impact on religious sentiments in a sensitive region like Jammu and Kashmir.