Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi Expresses Anguish Over Detentions at Dargah Hazratbal

SRINAGAR, Sept 7: Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) from Srinagar, Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, has strongly reacted to the detention of nearly thirty individuals by the police in connection with the recent events at Dargah Hazratbal.

In a press statement, Mehdi said he was “deeply anguished” over the arrests, stressing that such actions, driven by what he termed “operational retribution,” come at a time when reconciliation and empathy from the administration are most needed. He expressed concern that the issue was being distorted into a misplaced test of nationalism, thereby vilifying the people of Kashmir.

“The idea of India rests on co-existence and respect for religious and cultural sentiments. To misrepresent an expression of collective hurt as ‘anti-national’ undermines our constitutional values and unity,” he said.

The MP clarified that the matter was not about questioning the stature of the National Emblem but about the sensitivity of its placement inside a revered religious site. He criticized the administration for what he described as “insensitivity, if not deliberate provocation,” and demanded accountability from those responsible.

Citing Islamic principles, Mehdi also highlighted that the religion categorically prohibits the depiction of living beings inside mosques and other places of worship. “This prohibition is clear and unequivocal, and cannot be overlooked,” he added.

Urging the authorities to release those detained, Mehdi called for handling such sensitive matters with wisdom and empathy. He expressed solidarity with the families enduring the uncertainty and said he hoped that “better sense prevails.”