Placing emblem at Hazratbal wasn’t a mistake, breaking it was: Ashok Koul

Srinagar, Sep 20: Jammu and Kashmir BJP State General Secretary (Organisation), Ashok Koul said on Saturday that the developmental works carried out at Hazratbal Dargah stand as a “miracle in itself” and reflect the government’s commitment to preserving heritage and religious sites.Speaking during an interaction in Kupwara, Koul expressed satisfaction with the BJP’s organizational work in Jammu and Kashmir, while also highlighting various welfare measures taken for party workers and their families who lost lives in the line of duty.The work done at Dargah Sharif Hazratbal, especially the renovation and beautification inside the hall, is amazing. I don’t think such a thing has been created at any other place in the country. It is truly a miracle,” Koul said.He also defended the party against criticism over controversies related to religious institutions, stating, “It was not a mistake to put an emblem there. The mistake was made by those who broke it. If anyone had a problem, they should have approached the Waqf Board rather than vandalizing it.”Koul further said that BJP has been continuously reaching out to the grassroots, keeping its cadre active across Jammu and Kashmir, and ensuring relief and rehabilitation for the families of slain workers.“Whenever I visit any district, I make it a point to meet the families of our martyrs. If they need any help, I personally intervene. In almost all such families, at least one member has been provided a government job,” he added.On the recent highway blockade due to floods and landslides, the BJP leader said the tragedy was natural and not man-made. He informed that the government is assessing the losses and financial packages, similar to other states, will also reach Jammu and Kashmir soon. (KNS)