SRINAGAR, 25 MAY. The Jammu and Kashmir administration has ordered to replace Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah's embossed image from the police gallantry medal with the National Emblem of India.

The name of the honour has also been changed. The 'Sher-i-Kashmir' which was a title given to Sheikh Abdullah has been dropped and it will now be called as 'Jammu and Kashmir Police Medal for Gallantry.'

Obviously, the move has drawn sharp criticism from regional parties in J&K. Both NC and PDP call it a bid to destroy Sheikh Abdullah's legacy.

However, BJP has welcomed the move, terming it a shift from dynasty rule to democracy.