Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema calls for immediate removal of Ashoka Chakra plaque from Hazratbal shrine

STC NEWS DESK
SRINAGAR, SEPTEMBER 06 (STC): Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU), the largest conglomerate of religious organisations in J&K headed by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has called for immediate removal of the controversial inauguration plaque from Hazratbal shrine and urged the Waqf Board and other authorities to consult religious scholars before undertaking any future works at the sacred sites.
The MMU stated that Islam is explicit in its teachings envisaging no plaques, emblems, figures, or symbols are permitted in mosques or shrines. This principle has been honored across our land for generations. Expressing serious concern over the recent developments at the revered Hazratbal Shrine, where a plaque bearing the Ashoka Chakra has been installed in connection with refurbishment works, the conglomerate said Hazratbal is not merely a structure; it is the spiritual heart of the Muslims of Jammu & Kashmir, bound to faith and identity through centuries of devotion. Any alteration that undermines its sanctity deeply pains the devotional sentiments attached to it .
“Even when the Hazratbal Shrine was rebuilt in the past, no plaques or foundation stones were placed, out of respect for the injunctions of Shari‘ah and tradition. To introduce them now sets a dangerous and unnecessary precedent,” reads the MMU statement.
The MMU further reminds the Waqf Board that such acts are inconsistent with the responsibility entrusted to it under Muslim law and custom. Shrines must remain places of purity, prayer, and humility—not spaces for symbols or displays.
At the same time, MMU believes that the reaction of the people to this issue reflects their sincere religious concern. Filing FIRs against worshippers who protested from the depth of their faith is unjustified and unwarranted. Matters of religion must be resolved with understanding and dialogue, not with harsh punitive measures.
(Straight Talk Communications)