Srinagar, Sept 6(KNS): Senior Vice President of the Jammu and Kashmir Awami National Conference (ANC), Muzaffar Ahmad Shah, has demanded the immediate removal of a plaque carrying the national emblem at the Hazratbal shrine, terming it a violation of religious practices and the Waqf Act.

In a statement issued to KNS, Shah said the installation of any statue, figure, or emblem in Islamic shrines and mosques is strictly forbidden under Islamic principles. He noted that Waqf properties are required to be managed in accordance with Muslim law and customs, and described the placement of the plaque as “totally forbidden.”

Shah recalled that the Hazratbal shrine was built “with people’s devotion, emotion, affection, and contributions,” and said that historically there had been no plaques or nameplates at the revered site.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel“Carpeting and colored glass do not qualify as plaques. Installing a plaque with an emblem is against our faith,” he stated.

Calling the move an affront to religious sentiments, Shah demanded the sacking of the Waqf Board, removal of the plaque, and an unconditional apology to the people of Kashmir.

He further pointed to provisions of the State Emblem of India (Prohibition of Improper Use) Act, 2005, which bars misuse of the Ashoka emblem for personal, commercial, or religious purposes. As per Section 3 of the Act, improper use of the emblem is punishable with imprisonment up to two years, a fine of up to ?5,000, or both.

Shah urged the Prime Minister to intervene and ensure corrective action at the earliest, warning that failure to address the issue would deepen public resentment.(KNS).