Anantnag/Kulgam, Sep 06 (KNO): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday strongly criticised the installation of a government emblem at the revered Dargah Hazratbal Shrine, terming it both “unnecessary” and “avoidable”.
Speaking to reporters in Anantnag after assessing the post-flood situation, Omar, as per news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said he had never seen such symbols installed in any religious place or function, and argued there was “absolutely no justification” for the move.
“If the work at Hazratbal had been done sincerely, people themselves would have recognised it. You don’t need plaques or emblems to claim credit,” he said.
The Chief Minister said that Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah gave the shrine its current shape, yet “he (Sheikh Abdullah) never thought of using a plaque or stone to highlight his contribution, and still people remember his role with respect.”
Reacting sharply to Waqf Board chairperson Dr Darakshan Andrabi’s statement warning of PSA action against those who damaged the emblem, Omar said the approach was wrong from the start. “The first mistake was to hurt people’s sentiments. Instead of threatening PSA, the right course would have been to apologise to the people,” he said, adding, “Emblems belong in government offices, not in religious places like temples, mosques or shrines.”
Speaking to reporters in Kulgam, the CM said that whoever ruled J&K for the last 10 years must place before the people a clear record of what has been achieved since 2014.
“The government should present its track record honestly, instead of diverting attention through unnecessary controversies,” he said, adding that in the coming months, an Assembly session will be held where he will seek a report about it. "Our government will take steps so that people won't face such issues in future," he added.
Omar further said that his government will adopt a zero-tolerance policy towards illegal mining. “Illegal mining will not be tolerated. Strict action will be taken against all those found involved,” he said.
Accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Ministers Sakina Itoo and Javed Ahmad Rana, Advisor to the CM Nasir Aslam Wani, and concerned MLAs of the district, the Chief Minister inspected the flood-hit localities of Mehandi Kadal, Janglaat Mandi, Deva Colony, Ashajipora Bridge, and other areas of Anantnag.
Residents of Ganjiwara raised demands for the early completion of the flood shed pump, along with repairs of interior roads and drainage works in Eidgah Colony.
Later, the CM chaired a high-level review meeting in Anantnag, attended by the Deputy CM, Ministers, CM's Advisor, concerned MLAs, Deputy Commissioner Anantnag, SP Anantnag, district officers from all line departments, and other officials. He personally took stock of damages, restoration works, and the challenges faced by the people in Kulgam district.
Omar's visit, marked by interaction with affected families and on-ground review of damaged infrastructure, underscored the government’s commitment to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the public in this testing time.
The Chief Minister toured several affected areas, including Khudwani, Aadigatnoo, Gudder, Laisoo and adjoining localities. He assured the people that his government would take every possible step to provide timely relief and assistance.
He directed the district administration to accelerate restoration works on a war footing while ensuring an uninterrupted supply of essential services in affected areas.
Later, at a meeting convened at the Mini Secretariat Kulgam, the Deputy Commissioner briefed the Chief Minister about the early evacuation undertaken to safeguard lives and presented details of damage to roads, bridges, and public utilities. He outlined the steps initiated for a fast-track restoration of services—(KNO)