Srinagar: Police in Jammu and Kashmir’s Baramulla district have apprehended a man after a video of him constructing a structure resembling the Holy Kaaba went viral on social media.
The individual, identified as Abdul Razak Lone and a resident of Waripora Kunzar, was taken into custody following public outrage.
In a statement police said Lone had constructed a structure resembling the Holy Kaaba, which was later voluntarily demolished by locals during the night.
The man, had reportedly been claiming to be Sufi saint Sheikh Nooruddin Wali and had invited people to visit his site if they were unable to go for Umrah.
“Preliminary inquiry suggests that the individual appears to be mentally unsound. As per due legal procedure, necessary medical evaluation will be conducted, and he will be taken to a psychiatric hospital after obtaining requisite orders from the Executive Magistrate,” the statement said.
Baramulla Police has urged the general public to refrain from spreading rumors or misinformation regarding this incident on social media or any other platform.
“Circulating unverified information can lead to unnecessary panic and misinterpretation of facts, Police said, adding strict legal action will be taken against anyone found indulging in rumor-mongering or attempts to incite unrest.
“We request all citizens to maintain peace, communal harmony, and cooperate with law enforcement agencies. Any concerns or suspicious activities should be reported to the police through official channels,” the police said.