Srinagar: National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah on Friday offered prayers at the Hazratbal mosque alongside his son and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, a week after a controversy over the placement of a plaque bearing the national emblem in the shrine.
Addressing reporters, Abdullah urged fruit growers in Jammu and Kashmir to adopt crop insurance, warning that without it, losses due to changing weather patterns are inevitable.
“I have said it many times. People don’t realize how important crop insurance is. Weather patterns have changed, and without insurance, losses will continue,” he said.
Abdullah also said he prayed at Hazratbal for peace and harmony between Hindus and Muslims.
“I prayed to God to forgive our sins, guide the people of J-K out of difficulties, have mercy on India, and preserve the bond between Hindus and Muslims,” he added.
The controversy began last Friday when a plaque featuring the Ashoka emblem was vandalized at the shrine. Several political parties accused Waqf Board Chairperson Darakshan Andrabi of hurting religious sentiments by placing the national emblem inside the mosque, demanding her immediate removal and a criminal case.
Highlighting global conflicts, Abdullah emphasized the importance of turning to God.
“Look at Gaza—Muslims are suffering everywhere because we have distanced ourselves from God. Until we return to faith and abandon dishonesty and theft, Allah will not forgive us,” he said.
On Saturday, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah joined devotees at Hazratbal on the occasion of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi, offering Maghrib prayers and praying for peace, harmony, and prosperity in the Union Territory.
He criticized the Waqf Board for using the national emblem on a renovation plaque, stating that it is intended for government functions, not religious sites. Touring flood-affected areas in south Kashmir, he said the Waqf Board should apologize for the mistake that hurt religious sentiments.
After prayers, both Abdullahs were granted a glimpse of the holy relic at Hazratbal, joining other devotees in the solemn observance.
