Srinagar, April 10 -- Apni Party President Syed Muhammad Altaf Bukhari on Friday expressed relief over no casualties in a major fire incident at Jamia Arabia Ashraful Uloom in Hyderpora area of Srinagar, even as he termed the damage caused by the blaze as "deeply unfortunate and distressing".

In a statement issued here, Bukhari said the prompt response from police, fire and emergency services, and the local community-particularly the youth-played a crucial role in controlling the flames before the situation could escalate.

"Their swift action, sense of duty, and collective responsibility helped avert a major tragedy," the Apni Party chief said, calling for sincere appreciation and recognition of the bravery shown by all those involved i...