Ashoka emblem defaced at Hazratbal Shrine sparks outrage, FIRs, and debate over faith vs. national identity in Kashmir
Ashoka Emblem Vandalized at Hazratbal – On September 5, 2025, a tense moment unfolded in Srinagar when a group of unidentified protesters vandalized a newly installed plaque featuring India’s national emblem – the Ashoka Lion Capital at the revered Hazratbal Shrine. The incident occurred shortly after Friday prayers and has since sparked a storm of political, religious, and social debate across Jammu and Kashmir.
Ashoka Emblem Vandalized – What Happened at Hazratbal Shrine?
The Hazratbal Shrine, located on the banks of Dal Lake, is one of the most sacred sites in Kashmir, housing a relic believed to be the hair of Prophet Muhammad. Recently, the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board undertook renovation work at the shrine, unveiling a foundation plaque that included the Ashoka emblem, a symbol of India’s sovereignty.
However, many worshippers viewed the emblem as a sculpted figure, which they claimed violated Islamic principles against idol worship. In response, a group of protesters defaced the plaque, chanting slogans and expressing anger over what they saw as a breach of religious sanctity.
Videos of the incident quickly went viral, showing the emblem being smashed and the crowd demanding its removal. The Jammu and Kashmir Police registered an FIR against unknown individuals, and the Waqf Board condemned the act, calling it a deliberate attempt to provoke unrest.
Political Reactions: Outrage and Accusations
The vandalism triggered strong reactions from political leaders across the spectrum. BJP leader and Waqf Board chairperson Darakhshan Andrabi labelled the act a “terrorist attack” and demanded strict legal action against those involved. She also accused opposition leaders of fueling the controversy through provocative social media posts.
National Conference MLA Tanvir Sadiq responded by defending the protesters’ sentiments, stating that placing any sculpted figure inside a shrine goes against the Islamic belief in Tawheed, the oneness of God. He emphasized that sacred spaces should reflect purity and humility, not political symbolism.
Other leaders, including PDP’s Iltija Mufti and NC’s Aga Ruhullah Mehdi, criticized Andrabi’s remarks, calling them “communal” and “punitive.” They argued that labelling worshippers as terrorists for expressing religious concerns was unacceptable and deepened mistrust between the government and the people.
The incident has reignited debates about the role of national symbols in religious spaces and the need for cultural sensitivity in governance.
Faith vs. Nation: A Growing Divide?
At the heart of this controversy lies a deeper question, can national identity and religious belief coexist peacefully in shared spaces?
The Ashoka emblem, featuring four lions and a Dharma Chakra, is a symbol of India’s unity and constitutional values. Yet, its placement inside a religious shrine has raised concerns about whether such symbols are appropriate in places of worship, especially in regions with complex religious and political histories.
For many Kashmiris, the shrine is not just a religious site but a symbol of cultural identity. The inclusion of a national emblem, especially during a politically sensitive time, was seen by some as an imposition rather than a gesture of pride.
This clash reflects broader tensions in Kashmir, where issues of autonomy, representation, and religious freedom continue to shape public discourse. While some see the emblem as a unifying symbol, others view it as a disruption of sacred space.
Moving Forward: Dialogue, Respect, and Accountability
The Hazratbal incident is a reminder of the importance of dialogue and mutual respect in a diverse society. Religious sentiments must be acknowledged, and national pride must be expressed in ways that do not alienate communities.
Authorities must ensure that future renovations or installations in religious places are done with consultation and cultural sensitivity. Leaders across parties should avoid inflammatory language and instead promote understanding and unity.
As investigations continue, the focus should remain on restoring peace and trust. The shrine, a place of devotion and reflection, must not become a battleground for political agendas. Ultimately, the goal should be to preserve both faith and nation with dignity, compassion, and wisdom.
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