JAMMU, Sept 6: BJP today strongly condemned the attempt to damage the national emblem at the Hazratbal Shrine in Srinagar, calling it a deliberate effort to defame national symbols and disrupt peace in the region.
Addressing a press conference, BJP chief spokesperson, Sunil Sethi, expressed deep concern over the incident and called for strict action against those directly involved as well as those who incited the attack.
The spokesperson described the issue as highly sensitive and dangerous, warning that such acts are aimed at reviving extremist sentiments in Kashmir, similar to those seen in the 1990s.
Sethi praised the efforts of the Waqf Board, particularly its Chairperson, Dr. Darakshan Andrabi, for the renovation and beautification of the Hazratbal Shrine, which is now considered one of the most beautiful religious sites in South Asia. However, he pointed out that certain political forces have tried to exploit this development for their narrow agendas. The incident in question involved attempts to damage the national emblem, the Ashoka Chakra, installed on the inauguration stone outside the shrine complex. Sethi condemned those behind the controversy, arguing that the national emblem represents the pride of every Indian, regardless of religion, and that any attack on it is an insult to the entire nation. He slammed attempts by political actors, particularly from the National Conference, to inflame passions by tweeting provocative messages and spreading misinformation.
“The national emblem belongs to every Indian. It cannot be politicized or used to stir unrest,” he stressed. He further urged the Government to take strict action not only against those who physically attacked the symbol but also against those who incited and justified it, including political figures who supported or attempted to normalize the offense. Sethi also cautioned against attempts to create unrest under the guise of religion or politics, suggesting that such provocations are orchestrated to destabilize the region and give space to anti-national elements.
He warned that Pakistan and other hostile forces may seek to exploit the situation to further their agenda, but expressed confidence that the people of Kashmir, having seen past manipulations, will not fall prey to such tactics.
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