Srinagar, Sep 06 (KNS): Kulgam MLA M Y Tarigami has criticised the recent installation of the Ashoka emblem inside the Hazratbal Dargah, which was removed and vandalised by protesters on September 5, saying the action hurt the sentiments of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Speaking to KNS, Tarigami described the installation as “provocative” and questioned the need for such intervention. “To all of you, I would like to say a few words about the Ashoka emblem, which is unimportant to us and is also a bit provocative. Cutting across political lines, a large number of people have had a belief, and even now that belief is very much present. Then why the need for intervention?” he asked.

He urged authorities not to repeat similar actions and called for an apology from those responsible. “Any step that hurts the emotions of the people, I will interpret it as provocative. It should not have been done. Those in power should apologise to the people, to the common people,” he said.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Tarigami also criticised the use of FIRs and coercive measures in response to protests. “No, what is FIR? Pressure, FIR, imprisonment, jail, compulsion this story has become very old now. Problems have not been solved with sticks till date. Problems have been solved by compulsion, but have not been solved,” he said, and demanded legal action against those who issued orders leading to public unrest.

He added that peaceful protests should not be suppressed and public objections should not face threats or coercion. “Who said these things, what did they say, who should listen, who should not listen our court, the public court has to give this decision. We do not agree with this. We do not accept compulsion. Forcing people to do something in our affairs is not good for the country, the law and our traditions,” he said.(KNS).