Opposition leader demands exemplary punishment; slams attempts to communalise the issue
Srinagar, September 6, 2025:
The Leader of Opposition in Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Sunil Sharma, has denounced in the strongest terms the incident at Hazratbal Dargah where miscreants allegedly tried to tamper with a plaque displaying the National Emblem of India.
Describing the act as a “shameful affront to the nation,” Sharma remarked that it was not a simple case of vandalism but an assault on the very idea of India. “The National Emblem is more than a symbol — it is a reflection of our sovereignty, our unity, and our constitutional identity. To attack it is to strike at the soul of the Republic,” he stated.
The opposition leader also expressed displeasure over the controversial remarks attributed to a National Conference MLA, who appeared to link the episode with religion. Sharma termed such statements “irresponsible and dangerous,” arguing that they divert attention from the crime and give cover to those who seek to weaken national unity.
Calling for stringent measures, Sharma appealed to the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor to direct security and law enforcement agencies to identify and prosecute every individual involved. “The punishment must be severe and exemplary so that no one ever contemplates desecrating the National Emblem again,” he asserted.
The incident, which has triggered widespread outrage, has renewed debates on the protection of national symbols and the responsibilities of public representatives in responding to acts that challenge the nation’s dignity.