Ashoka Emblem Vandalised at Srinagar’s Hazratbal Shrine Amid Religious Sensitivities

On September 5, 2025, a significant uproar was triggered at Srinagar’s revered Hazratbal Shrine when a group of individuals vandalised a plaque bearing the Ashoka Emblem during Friday prayers. The plaque, installed by the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board as part of a renovation effort, features the national emblem and was placed near the shrine that houses a sacred relic of Prophet Muhammad. The attack involved stone pelting, which led to the emblem being defaced, raising tensions across the region.

Political Reactions: Clash Over Religious and National Symbols

The destruction of the emblem ignited strong reactions from various political leaders and groups:

• National Conference’s Stand: Leader Tanvir Sadiq condemned the emblem’s installation, arguing that it violated Islamic tenets by displaying a sculpted symbol in a holy place. He underscored Islam’s prohibition of idol worship and insisted such representations are inappropriate in religious settings.
• BJP and Waqf Board’s Response: Darakhshan Andrabi, chairperson of the Waqf Board and a BJP member, denounced the vandals, branding them as “terrorists” and calling for their immediate arrest. The BJP echoed this sentiment, urging strict measures to safeguard national symbols.
• Chief Minister’s Viewpoint: Omar Abdullah questioned the necessity of affixing the Ashoka Emblem to the shrine, stating the renovation alone was adequate. He also criticized the application of the Public Safety Act (PSA) against those accused of vandalism, describing it as disproportionate.
• Lieutenant Governor’s Condemnation: Manoj Sinha expressed sorrow over the incident, reaffirming the Ashoka Emblem as a symbol of India’s sovereignty and pride, and declared that such acts of desecration would not be tolerated.

Legal Actions

Following the incident, Jammu and Kashmir Police registered an FIR and detained 26 individuals identified through CCTV footage. The episode has intensified debates around the intersection of religious beliefs and national identity, underscoring the delicate balance between honouring religious sensitivities and preserving national symbols.

Conclusion: Navigating a Complex Socio-Political Landscape

This controversy reflects the intricate dynamics of governance in Jammu and Kashmir, where political loyalties, religious convictions, and national pride often converge and conflict. Moving forward, resolving these tensions will require nuanced dialogue and mutual respect to ensure peace and harmony in the region.

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