SRINAGAR: 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.
A fisherman identified as Nazir Ahmad Latoo, son of Ghulam Mohammad Latoo, a resident of Shaltang Zogyar, reported to Police Station Sheeri, Baramulla, that he had recovered a stone sculpture while fishing in the River Jhelum. The sculpture was immediately brought to the notice of police authorities and kept in safe custody at Police Station Sheeri.
Subsequently, on December 26, 2025, following due procedure and official directions from the Directorate of Archives, Archaeology and Museums, Jammu and Kashmir, 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 and takeover process, it reads.
Baramulla Police reiterated its commitment to the protection of cultural heritage and urged citizens to promptly inform authorities about any such discoveries of historical or archaeological importance, the statement added. (KNC)
