Cherish Tiranga, uphold its timeless ideals of secularism, brotherhood, says J&K CM Omar Abdullah

The Hindu

a day ago

J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday (August 12, 2025) participated in the Tiranga Yatra procession at Srinagar's Dal Lake, underscoring the place the Tricolour holds in the country's pride.
'The National Flag is a living symbol of our unity, peace, and harmony. The Tiranga carries the hopes and sacrifices of generations and reflects India's true strength — our diversity. I urge everyone to cherish it and uphold its timeless ideals of secularism and brotherhood,' Mr. Abdullah said.
The Chief Minister also recalled the struggle of patriots to see the Tricolour displayed on government buildings. 'There was once a student who returned to India from the United States to challenge restrictions on the use of the Tricolour. He pursued the matter legally and eventually helped secure the right for citizens to fly the National Flag at their residences,' Mr. Abdullah said.
Earlier in the day, L-G Sinha flagged off the Tiranga Yatra. 'The Tiranga is my Dharma. The Tiranga is my strength. The Tiranga is my heartbeat,' Mr. Sinha said.
Hundreds of people, including officials, joined the rally to honour the National Flag. 'The flag symbolises our unity, pride, and shared identity,' the L-G said.
Stating that thousands had gathered to honour the National Flag, Mr. Sinha said, 'We must also resolve to build the edifice of a modern and prosperous J&K on the foundation of the sacrifices made by our soldiers of the Army, CAPFs, and Police.'
He added that, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Jammu and Kashmir has entered a new era of inclusive development.
'With renewed self-confidence and faith, the people of J&K are writing their own destiny. The unfulfilled dreams of generations are finally being realised. With love for Maa Bharti in their hearts, the people of J&K are marching ahead. This patriotic spirit is our greatest strength and is paving the way for a peaceful and prosperous future for J&K and the nation,' the Lieutenant Governor said.
He said that the skies of Jammu and Kashmir were shining with the Tricolour. 'From the banks of the Jhelum to the Chenab, and from the peaks of Pir Panjal to Harmukh, the cry of 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' can be heard everywhere. A new generation is rising, dedicated to the honour and glory of the Tricolour. They have one resolve — to live and die for Maa Bharti,' the Lieutenant Governor said.
The L-G appealed to all sections of society, especially the youth of J&K, 'to participate enthusiastically in the third phase of the Har Ghar Tiranga Abhiyan,' starting on August 13.