Srinagar: National Conference MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi on Sunday voiced concern over the detention of individuals following the vandalisation of the Ashoka emblem at the Hazratbal shrine, asserting that the matter is being distorted to unfairly vilify the people of Kashmir under a “misplaced test of nationalism.”
Officials said more than 50 people have been detained for questioning after police reviewed videos and CCTV footage of Friday’s incident.
In a statement, the Lok Sabha member from Srinagar expressed deep anguish over the police action.
“Actions driven by operational retribution, at a time when reconciliation and empathy from the administration are most needed, are disheartening,” Mehdi said. “It is regrettable that this issue is being portrayed as a test of nationalism, thereby maligning the people of Kashmir. Misrepresenting a collective expression of hurt as ‘anti-national’ undermines our constitutional values and national unity.”
He called for the immediate release of those detained, stressing that sensitive matters should be handled with wisdom and empathy. “I urge the authorities to release the detainees and to approach such situations thoughtfully. I stand in solidarity with the families facing uncertainty and hope that reason and understanding prevail,” he added.
Mehdi emphasized that India’s strength lies in co-existence and respect for religious and cultural sentiments. He noted that the controversy at Hazratbal was not about questioning the national emblem, but about the intent behind its placement in a revered religious site.
“The unfortunate situation at Dargah Hazratbal arose from administrative insensitivity, if not deliberate provocation. Those responsible must be held accountable under the same laws currently being used to detain innocent people,” he said.
He further highlighted that Islam, while respecting the sentiments and rights of others, strictly prohibits the depiction of living beings in mosques and other places of worship. “This prohibition is clear and unequivocal and cannot be ignored,” Mehdi added.
