Overview
- Abdullah, who was opening the two-day Know Your Artisans exhibition in Srinagar on Wednesday, stopped at a ribbon in saffron, white and green and refused to cut it.
- He asked organisers to untie and keep it with respect, helped wrap it, and then carried on with the programme alongside Deputy CM Surinder Choudhary and adviser Nasir Aslam Wani.
- A video of the moment spread across social media and drew praise from users and allies who called it a thoughtful show of respect.
- BJP J&K spokesperson Altaf Thakur called the use of a tricolour ribbon unacceptable and demanded suspension or arrest of those responsible, while no official action has been announced.
- Cutting the Indian National Flag is an offence under the 1971 law, yet a Madras High Court ruling distinguishes printed tricolour designs from the flag itself, a nuance noted as the exhibition also showcased new handicrafts initiatives.