Hazratbal shrine: National emblem debate sparks political reactions
A mob recently damaged the Ashoka Emblem on the foundation stone at Srinagar's Hazratbal Shrine, which is famous for housing a relic of Prophet Muhammad.
Dr. Darakshan Andrabi, Chairperson of J&K Waqf Board, called it a "terrorist attack" and reminded everyone that the shrine stands for peace and unity.
The incident has sparked new debates about whether national symbols belong at religious sites, with some saying the emblem goes against Islamic beliefs.
What leaders said
Jammu & Kashmir Waqf Board chief Dr. Darakshan Andrabi also called it a "terrorist attack" and pushed for strict legal action—those involved could even be banned from the shrine for life.
Other leaders like Tanvir Sadiq, Mehbooba Mufti, and Omar Abdullah questioned if national emblems should be placed on religious grounds or demanded accountability.
Meanwhile, Rijiju stressed that symbols like the Ashoka Emblem represent India's values and deserve respect everywhere.