26 Detained Over National Emblem Vandalism at Hazratbal Shrine

Srinagar, Sept 6: Jammu and Kashmir Police have detained 26 individuals in connection with the defacement of the national emblem engraved on an inauguration plaque at the revered Hazratbal Shrine. The arrests were made after CCTV footage and other evidence linked the suspects to the incident.

FIR Registered; Investigation Underway

An FIR (No. 76 of 2025) under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita has been registered at PS Nigeen. The case revolves around the public protest against the emblem's installation on a religious site deeply revered by the community. Investigations are ongoing.

Political Fallout & Religious Sentiments

The incident ignited a political storm. Former CM Omar Abdullah questioned the need to install the national emblem at a shrine, calling it an unnecessary provocation. Waqf Board Chairperson Darakhshan Andrabi condemned the act as an assault on the Constitution and demanded strict legal action, including invoking the PSA.

Social and Religious Tensions Rise

Political parties and religious leaders voiced serious concerns. Many argued that placing the national emblem—a sculpted symbol—inside a sacred space violated Islamic teachings against idolography and hurt deep-seated religious sentiments. Calls for an apology and more sensitive governance followed.

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Source: Based on reporting by India Today, Greater Kashmir, and Kashmir News Service (KNS) (Read Greater Kashmir | Read India Today)

Labels: Hazratbal Shrine, National Emblem Row, Detentions, Religious Controversy, Jammu & Kashmir Police

Tags: #Hazratbal #EmblemVandalism #ReligiousSentiment #Srinagar #Detentions

Disclaimer: This article is a rewritten synthesis based on reporting by India Today, Greater Kashmir, KNS, and other media sources. Jammu News Portal does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of external content.