Srinagar, 26 December (H.S.): Baramulla Police have played a key role in safeguarding cultural heritage after facilitating the lawful recovery and handover of an ancient stone sculpture of Goddess Durga, retrieved from the River Jhelum, to the Department of Archives, Archaeology and Museums for preservation and conservation.

In a statement, On 25 December 2025, a fisherman identified as Nazir Ahmad Latoo S/o Ghulam Mohammad Latoo, R/o Shaltang/Zogyar, reported to Police Station Sheeri, Baramulla, that he had recovered a stone sculpture while fishing in River Jhelum. The sculpture was immediately brought to the notice of police authorities and kept in safe custody at Police Station Sheri.

Subsequently, on 26 December 2025, following due procedure and official directions from the Directorate of Archives, Archaeology & Museums, J&K, the said stone sculpture identified as Goddess Durga was formally handed over by Baramulla Police to officials of the Archaeology Wing, Srinagar through a proper handover/takeover process, it reads.

Baramulla Police reiterates its commitment to the protection of cultural heritage and urges citizens to promptly inform authorities about any such discoveries of historical or archaeological importance, reads the statement.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar