Srinagar: Tensions flared in the Dargah area of Srinagar after a video surfaced on social media allegedly showing individuals vandalising the National Emblem engraved on a foundation stone at a public site.
The viral video, which has sparked widespread condemnation, captures a group of unidentified individuals attempting to deface the emblem, which was installed as part of a government development project.
Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board Chairperson Dr Darakhshan Andrabi on Friday issued a strong condemnation of the act, calling it a grave insult to the sanctity of the Hazratbal Shrine and the sentiments of the Muslim community.
Speaking at a press conference held within the Hazratbal shrine complex, Dr Andrabi labelled the act as “nothing short of terrorism.” She stated, 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.
She appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and senior security officials to ensure that those responsible are swiftly apprehended.
Dr Andrabi also alleged that the incident had political undertones. 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, she said.
She further added that an FIR will be registered against all those involved, including a legislator whose recent social media remarks allegedly inflamed the situation.
Dr Andrabi reaffirmed the Waqf Board’s commitment to protecting religious sites, saying the ongoing renovation work at Hazratbal aims to enhance both its sanctity and accessibility. We will not allow anyone to politicise places of worship. These are sacred spaces meant for prayer and unity she concluded.
