Jammu and Kashmir Police have taken notice of an incident involving a National Conference (NC) legislator, who allegedly remained seated during the national anthem at the swearing-in ceremony of the new J&K government in Srinagar on Wednesday, October 16, 2024. The legislator cited “medical issues” as the reason for his action.
A spokesperson for the police reported that a preliminary inquiry has been initiated under Section 173 (3) of the BNSS (Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita) following the incident. An officer of Superintendent of Police rank is leading the inquiry, focusing on analyzing electronic evidence to determine the next steps for legal action.
Although the police statement did not specify the name of the NC MLA, sources indicate that Hilal Akbar Lone, representing the Sonawari constituency in north Kashmir, was the individual in question. He stated that his medical condition prevented him from standing during the anthem.
Lone emphasized, “I had no intention of insulting the national anthem, and as a legislator, I would never do so. I have sworn by the Indian Constitution. I had valid medical reasons for sitting down due to a backache.”
He further pointed out that there are legal precedents indicating it is not a crime to remain seated during the national anthem, referencing Supreme Court observations.
The new government was inaugurated by J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) on October 16, 2024.
Published – October 18, 2024 02:37 am IST
