Girdhari Lal Raina Expresses Serious Concern Over Withdrawal of Security from Mata Bhadrakali Asthapan Shrine

Srinagar, June 23: Former MLC, BJP Spokesperson, and Trustee of Mata Bhadrakali Asthapan Trust, Shri Girdhari Lal Raina, has expressed deep concern over the reported withdrawal of security from the revered and highly sensitive shrine of Mata Bhadrakali Asthapan, located in the dense forests of Bhadrakali, Wadipora, Handwara in Kupwara district.
In communications addressed to the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, and the Director General of Police, Nalin Prabhat, Shri Raina urged the administration to immediately review the situation and ensure adequate security arrangements for the shrine and its devotees.

He stated that Mata Bhadrakali Asthapan is an ancient and highly revered shrine that attracts a large number of devotees from different parts of Jammu & Kashmir and beyond. The shrine was until recently protected by the Army, but the security cover has reportedly been withdrawn without any visible alternative mechanism being put in place.
Shri Raina recalled that the sacred Murti of Mata Bhadrakali had been stolen in the past, resulting in widespread public anger and protests. He emphasized that the present Murti was installed and consecrated through proper religious rituals and Pran Pratishtha, and any harm to the deity or the shrine due to inadequate security would deeply hurt the religious sentiments of countless devotees.
He cautioned that any security lapse at such a sensitive religious site could have wider implications and may undermine public confidence in the administration’s ability to protect places of worship and uphold the rule of law.
Demanding immediate intervention, Shri Raina urged the authorities to put in place adequate security arrangements before any withdrawal of protection is effected and to take all necessary steps to preserve the sanctity, dignity, and security of the shrine.
“The safety of devotees and the protection of this sacred place of worship must remain a matter of priority. The administration must act promptly to ensure that the shrine remains secure and that devotees can visit it without fear or apprehension,” Shri Raina said.
Issued by: Girdhari Lal Raina
Former MLC
BJP Spokesperson
Trustee, Mata Bhadrakali Asthapan Trust