The installation of a plaque bearing the national emblem at the Hazratbal shrine in Srinagar has triggered a significant controversy, leading to demands for accountability and legal action. The plaque, placed by the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board, was vandalized by devotees who consider the presence of any symbols or figures within the mosque as a violation of Islamic principles.

Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has called for an apology from Waqf Board Chairperson Darakhshan Andrabi, a member of the BJP, for allegedly hurting religious sentiments. Abdullah questioned the necessity of using the emblem at a religious site, stating that such symbols are typically reserved for government functions and institutions, not religious places like mosques, temples, or gurdwaras. He argued that the Waqf Board "played with the sentiments of the people". He suggested that instead of issuing threats and calling for arrests under the Public Safety Act (PSA) against those who vandalized the plaque, Andrabi should acknowledge the mistake and apologize. Abdullah further added that the present form of Hazratbal Dargah was given by Shere -e- kashmir, Sheikh Mohammed Abdullah, and he never used such a stone and people still remember him for his work despite not having his name engraved anywhere.

Former Chief Minister and PDP President Mehbooba Mufti has taken a more assertive stance, seeking legal action against Andrabi. Mufti's party approached the Nigeen police station to file a First Information Report (FIR) against Andrabi but were denied. Consequently, the PDP will now approach the Hazratbal police station to register the FIR. Mufti argues that the installation of the plaque deliberately hurt the religious sentiments of Muslims and provoked them. She urged the J&K Police to immediately initiate an FIR, citing the gravity of the offense. Mufti has also criticized Andrabi for demanding the application of PSA against those who vandalized the plaque. She contended that instead of taking action against those who reacted out of religious sentiment, the government should take action against the Waqf Board chairperson and members who permitted such an act.

The controversy has also drawn reactions from other political figures and groups. The National Conference (NC) has called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to dismiss Andrabi, alleging that the controversy was deliberately created with an eye on the upcoming elections. A National Conference legislator from Hazratbal, Salman Sagar, echoed the demand for an apology from the Waqf Board chairperson.

Amidst the political storm, the police have registered a case regarding the defacement of the national emblem and are in the process of identifying the individuals involved. The incident has raised questions about the appropriateness of using government emblems in religious places and the need for sensitivity towards religious sentiments.