After Vandalism JK CM Says Emblem Only For Government Functions

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday condemned the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board's decision to inscribe the national emblem on a renovation plaque at Srinagar's Hazratbal mosque, stating it is reserved for government functions and not religious sites. He urged the board to apologize for the "mistake" that has offended religious sentiments, amid a controversy sparked by the plaque's vandalism by unidentified individuals shortly after Friday prayers.

"I have never seen an emblem being used in this way in any religious place... Mosques, shrines, temples, and gurdwaras are not government institutions," Abdullah said during a visit to flood-hit areas in Anantnag. He questioned the plaque's necessity, citing how National Conference founder Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah renovated the shrine without seeking recognition. "Google search and you will find that the national emblem is only used in government functions," he added.

The incident drew sharp criticism from Waqf Board Chairperson Darakshan Andrabi, who demanded action under the Public Safety Act (PSA) against the "hooligans." Abdullah rebuked this, accusing the board of provoking sentiments and resorting to threats instead of admitting fault.

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Police registered a case at Nigeen station under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita sections for disturbing peace, rioting, criminal conspiracy, and the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act. Political figures, including NC's Tanvir Sadiq and MP Ruhullah Mehdi, decried the emblem's placement as violating Islamic monotheism by introducing a sculpted figure. The PDP alleged deliberate provocation of Muslims, slamming the PSA call as reflective of a "punitive and communal mindset."

During his Anantnag tour, Abdullah assured flood-affected families of government support, directing expedited relief, infrastructure repairs, and essential supplies. The episode highlights tensions over religious sensitivities and administrative overreach in the region.

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