SRINAGAR: The BJP on Tuesday demanded strict action against those responsible for vandalising the national emblem at the Hazratbal shrine in Jammu and Kashmir last week, emphasizing that the country’s symbols must not be disrespected in any form.
BJP J-K president Sat Sharma told reporters, “It is the duty of every citizen to protect the Constitution and its symbols. I will not discuss religious backgrounds, as I respect my faith and believe everyone respects theirs. But no one has the right to play with the Ashoka emblem, which commands universal respect. Those responsible must be held accountable.”
The incident sparked widespread controversy after a plaque bearing the Ashoka emblem was vandalised at the shrine on Friday. Most political parties accused Waqf Board chairperson Darakshan Andrabi of hurting religious sentiments by placing the national emblem inside a mosque, and demanded her immediate removal and registration of a criminal case.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah called on the Waqf Board to apologise for the “mistake,” stressing that the national emblem is intended for government functions, not religious institutions. He also condemned Andrabi’s threat to take action under the Public Safety Act (PSA) against those involved in the vandalism.
