26 detained after National Emblem on plaque vandalised at Hazratbal shrine

On Saturday, 26 individuals were detained by the Jammu and Kashmir Police in connection with the vandalism of the national emblem at the Hazratbal shrine. CCTV footage recovered from the site was reviewed, and the individuals seen in the recordings were taken into custody for further investigation.

The incident, which occurred on Friday, has generated significant controversy in the region. The emblem, which had been placed on a renovation plaque at the mosque that houses a relic of Prophet Muhammad, was defaced, causing widespread concern among local leaders and worshippers.

Concerns were raised by political parties, including the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the National Conference (NC), regarding the use of the emblem at a place of worship. It was argued that the display of a sculpted figure within such a setting is inconsistent with Islamic principles, which prohibit idol worship.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also questioned the necessity of the emblem at the shrine. He expressed concern over the invocation of the Public Safety Act (PSA) against those involved in the vandalism, and said, “What was the need for an emblem and the stone in the first place? Wasn’t the work already sufficient?”

Governor Manoj Sinha condemned the vandalism and said that he was “deeply anguished” by the act. However, he did not comment directly on the placement of the emblem.

Meanwhile, J&K Waqf Board chief, had previously called for strict legal action against those responsible for removing the emblem. She said that the individuals behind the vandalism were trying to disturb public order and should be treated as lawbreakers.

(IndiaToday)