Srinagar: Member of Indian parliament Agha Ruhullah Mehdi and Kashmiri religious scholar Agha Syed Mohammad Hadi have condemned the removal of a signboard in Srinagar’s Lal Chowk. The signboard urged tourists to respect the local culture, avoid alcohol and drug use, and maintain cleanliness in the city.

According to a statement by Kashmir Media Service, the signboard was installed by the Traders Association at Lal Chowk to welcome visitors. It advised tourists to “love and cherish their families” while respecting local traditions, specifically requesting them to refrain from consuming liquor, using drugs, spitting on roads, and smoking in public spaces.

Agha Ruhullah Mehdi criticized the action on X, questioning the legality of appealing for respect toward local sensitivities. He challenged the authorities to clarify which law was violated by the signboard, suggesting that the prevailing law seems to silence Kashmiris.

Mehdi further accused the administration of suppressing Kashmiri identity, describing the situation as an “Orwellian nightmare” where residents cannot protest or safeguard their cultural identity. He warned that such suppression could fuel resistance, asserting that Kashmiris have the right to preserve and protect their culture.

He also urged the police to act responsibly and not like a colonial power, emphasizing the need for law enforcement to respect community sensitivities.

The removal of the signboard has ignited a debate, with some advocating for community-driven initiatives promoting ethical conduct without official endorsement, while others believe such messages must comply with government regulations.

It is notable that the police, following orders from the New Delhi-appointed Lieutenant Governor in Srinagar, promptly seized the signboards and standees in Lal Chowk, which urged tourists to avoid alcohol and drug consumption.

Agha Syed Mohammad Hadi also criticized the administration’s actions on X, questioning the urgency of removing the signboard and suggesting that it could have supported the campaign for a drug-free Kashmir.