Tensions escalated in Srinagar after a video emerged showing individuals vandalizing the National Emblem at the Hazratbal Shrine, prompting strong condemnation from local officials.
Srinagar: Tensions flared in the Dargah area of Srinagar following the circulation of a video on social media that allegedly depicts individuals vandalizing the National Emblem engraved on a foundation stone at a public site.
The viral footage has drawn widespread condemnation, capturing a group of unidentified individuals attempting to deface the emblem, which was installed as part of a government development project.
Dr. Darakhshan Andrabi, Chairperson of the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board, issued a strong denunciation of the act, describing it as a serious affront to the sanctity of the Hazratbal Shrine and the sentiments of the Muslim community.
During a press conference held within the Hazratbal shrine complex, Dr. Andrabi characterized the vandalism as “nothing short of terrorism.” She expressed her shock, stating, “It felt like a cloudburst had struck me when I saw the emblem damaged. Those who did this are not just miscreants; they are terrorists.”
Dr. Andrabi appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and senior security officials to ensure that those responsible for the vandalism are swiftly apprehended.
She also suggested that the incident might have political motivations, asserting, “This disruption appears to have been deliberately orchestrated by political elements and their supporters. I had already warned about the possibility of such incidents being provoked.”
In addition, Dr. Andrabi announced plans to file a First Information Report (FIR) against all individuals involved, including a legislator whose recent social media comments allegedly inflamed the situation.
Reaffirming the Waqf Board’s commitment to safeguarding religious sites, she stated that the ongoing renovation work at Hazratbal aims to enhance both its sanctity and accessibility. “We will not allow anyone to politicize places of worship. These are sacred spaces meant for prayer and unity,” she concluded.
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