Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today urged citizens to preserve and uphold the honour of the national flag, describing it as a living symbol of India’s identity, pride, and the sacrifices of countless patriots.
He was addressing a gathering at the Tiranga Rally, which concluded at the Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden, Chashma-i-Shahi, Srinagar.
Recalling the past, the Chief Minister noted that there was a time when the national flag was only allowed to fly over government buildings and could not be displayed in homes, workplaces, or private spaces. “This was the reality we lived in — the flag belonged to the nation, yet it was missing from our personal lives,” he remarked.
Highlighting the role of one determined citizen who approached the courts and won the right for every Indian to hoist the Tiranga at their homes, Omar Abdullah said the episode was proof that “even a single individual, with the right intentions, can bring about lasting change.”
Paying tribute to those who laid down their lives for the honour of the national flag, he stated, “They gave up their present for the nation’s future, stood alone if needed, and believed their single act of courage could defend the dignity of our Tiranga.”
Underscoring the need for the flag to remain a constant source of pride, not just during official functions, the Chief Minister urged citizens to “raise it higher — both in our skies and in the respect we accord it — inspired by the sacrifices of those who came before us.”
Earlier in the day, Omar Abdullah, along with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, led a vibrant Tiranga Rally from the scenic lawns of the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC). Ministers Sakina Itoo, Javed Rana, and Javed Dar were also present, along with senior civil and police officers.
The rally witnessed enthusiastic participation from people of all walks of life, including youth, students, and community members.(Agencies)
