Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, June 19: A massive fire that raged in the Sangam area of Eidgah peripheries today damaged the shrine of Hazrat Baba Naseeb Din Gazi (RA), resulting in a furor among the residents.
According to locals, the fire broke out last night around 2 am, prompting the Fire and Emergency Services to deploy their personnel and machinery to extinguish the flames.
“In the fire incident, two Chinar trees have also suffered damage; the shrine has been damaged partially; this is the second instance at the shrine where we have seen a fire break out,” the locals said.
The residents alleged that the circumstances look suspicious and should be investigated to ascertain the facts. To press for immediate action, scores of people also staged a protest, urging the authorities to act swiftly.
“There is a need for an inquiry into the matter because we have found certain items near the spot that should not be here. If anyone is responsible, action must follow,” they said.
Throughout the night, officers from the police and civil administration were present at the scene, assuring people that the matter would be investigated.
In the morning, the Additional Deputy Commissioner of Srinagar, Dr. Khalid Hussain Malik, also visited the site to pacify the residents who had blocked roads, urging the administration to identify and arrest those involved.
He acknowledged that the blaze was not a natural incident, noting a similar incident earlier that was thwarted by the locals due to timely intervention.
“I assure you that a magisterial inquiry will be ordered into the matter. The entire situation will be ascertained. It was not a natural fire, and those involved will be brought to book. We will identify the culprits and act according to the law,” he said.
Meanwhile, Srinagar Police has registered a case in this regard and started an investigation to identify those involved.
“Police have taken cognizance of the incident of arson and damage to the shrine of Baba Naseeb-ud-din Gazi. FIR No. 24/24 under relevant sections of law has been registered in PS Sangam. A thorough and speedy investigation is underway to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice,” police said.
Police urged the public to desist from spreading rumors and false information. “They shouldn’t fall prey to the false propaganda of anti-social elements. Legal action shall be taken against those who are found to be involved in provocative acts or instigation.”
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