Srinagar, August 12: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today urged people to preserve and maintain the honor of the national flag, called it a living symbol of India’s identity, pride and countless patriots.
He was addressing a gathering at the tricolor rally held in Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden, Chashma-e-Shahi, Srinagar.
While reflecting the past, the Chief Minister recalled that there was a time when the national flag was allowed to fly only on government buildings, stopping from being displayed in homes, workplaces or private places. “This was the reality in which we lived – the flag belonged to the nation, yet it was absent from our personal life,” he said.
The role of a single -determined citizen contacted by the courts was highlighted and acquired the right to hoist the tricolor in his homes, the Chief Minister said that the change was proof that “even a person, who is inspired by the right intentions, could bring permanent changes.”
He paid a rich tribute to those who had laid their life to honor the national flag, he said, “He left his present for the future of the nation, if necessary, stood alone, and believed that his single work of courage could defend the dignity of our tricolor.”
To meet the need of the flag, to remain a constant symbol of pride, not only during the official functions, Omar Abdullah asked the citizens to be inspired by the sacrifices of those who came before us – in connection with the sacrifices given by us. “
Earlier in the day, Chief Minister, Lieutenant Governor along with Mr. Manoj Sinha, led a lively tricolor rally from the picturesque lawn of Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Center (SKICC). Ministers Sakina Itu, Javed Rana and Javed Dar were also present with senior citizens and police officers.
The rally saw enthusiastic participation from people in all areas of life, including youth, students and community members.