New Delhi: The defacement of the National Emblem at Srinagar’s Hazratbal shrine has triggered a political storm, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accusing the Congress of backing “anti-national acts” following remarks by party leader Tariq Anwar.

Congress MP’s Controversial Comment

Reacting to the incident, Anwar said, “What’s done is done,” while adding that religious sites do not feature the Ashok Chakra. He cited Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s statement that the emblem had no place at a shrine.

When pressed on whether action should be taken against those responsible, Anwar said there was “no need,” although he acknowledged the act itself was wrong.

BJP’s Response

BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari strongly criticised Anwar’s remark, alleging that it reflected Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s influence. “On Rahul Gandhi’s instructions, Congress MP Tariq Anwar shamelessly justifies the defacing of the Ashok Stambh in Jammu & Kashmir by extremists. Congress has reduced itself to a fringe party that openly backs anti-national acts,” Bhandari wrote on X.

National Conference’s Stand

Leaders of the National Conference (NC) also weighed in. Party MLA Tanvir Sadiq said the Ashok Chakra had been misused by the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board and demanded action against those responsible. He stressed that the NC respected the emblem but opposed its installation at the shrine.

NC president Farooq Abdullah also called the installation a mistake, saying the emblem had no place in a mosque. CM Omar Abdullah added that the Waqf Board should apologise, noting that the national emblem was meant for government offices, not religious sites.

Detentions and Investigation

Nearly 50 people have reportedly been detained for questioning in connection with the vandalism, though official figures remain unclear. The J&K Police have not released a confirmed number, while estimates from different parties range between 26 and 50.

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