Omar Abdullah, Manoj Sinha Urge Citizens to Honour National Flag, Recall Sacrifices at Srinagar Tiranga Yatra

Srinagar, Aug 2025 : Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday called the national flag “our identity,” urging citizens to uphold its dignity by remembering the sacrifices made for its honour. Speaking at the Tiranga Yatra in Srinagar, Omar Abdullah reflected on the nation’s journey toward embracing the tricolour as a symbol of unity and pride.

“Many times, we hear or say, ‘I am alone—what can I do by myself?’ But think back to when we were not even allowed to hoist the national flag at our own homes,” Abdullah recalled. He noted that earlier, the law permitted only government buildings to display the flag.

He recounted the story of one determined citizen who, after seeing American friends freely display their flag, initiated a legal battle upon returning to India. “He knocked at the doors of the courts and compelled the country’s rulers to change the law so that every citizen could proudly hoist the tricolour at home,” Abdullah said.

According to the Chief Minister, the man’s victory was not due to wealth or influence, but his unwavering intent. “Those who sacrificed their lives for this flag never asked, ‘What can I do alone?’ They believed, ‘I alone am enough.’ This spirit is what has always protected our flag,” he added.

Omar Abdullah urged that the connection with the tricolour must not be confined to ceremonial events. “This flag is our identity. We must follow in the footsteps of those who made immense sacrifices for its glory,” he said.

At the same event, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha praised security forces for avenging the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 civilian lives. Paying tribute, Sinha said, “We honour those who freed us from colonial rule and those in the armed forces and police who protect the nation. Our duty is to safeguard their hopes and dreams.”

Sinha highlighted that enthusiasm for the Tiranga Yatra has grown steadily over the past five years, aligning with the vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India). He said the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, launched on August 2, had seen inspiring participation, particularly among the youth of Jammu and Kashmir.

“We have resolved to live for the tricolour and, if needed, to happily lay down our lives for its honour,” he said, crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi for making tireless efforts toward fulfilling the aspirations of the region’s youth.