Srinagar, August 15: On the occasion of the 80th Independence Day, Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha hoisted the national flag at the Lok Bhawan. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah led the main ceremony at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar. Both leaders paid tribute to the martyrs and reaffirmed their commitment to a peaceful and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir.
Lieutenant Governor Sinha raised the national flag at Lok Bhawan. In a video shared on social media, he was seen saluting the tricolor.
In another post, he expressed, “On our 80th Independence Day, I proudly hoisted the national flag at Lok Bhawan. I join all citizens in paying homage to the founders of our nation and the brave sons and daughters of Bharat Mata who sacrificed their lives for our freedom.”
He also paid tribute to citizens who lost their lives in natural disasters this year. Additionally, he congratulated the armed forces, Jammu and Kashmir Police, CAPF, and other security agencies.
Sinha stated, “We hold deep gratitude for those soldiers and police officers who made the ultimate sacrifice while defending the unity of our country and fighting terrorism. Let us strive to realize their dreams of a peaceful and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir and a great nation.”
During the main ceremony at Bakshi Stadium, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah unfurled the national flag and took the salute of the parade. He began his speech with the famous lines from Urdu poet Iqbal, “Sare Jahan Se Achha Hindustan Hamara.”
CM Abdullah said, “Today, we pay tribute to all who gave their lives for the country’s freedom. This day is both a day of joy and remembrance. We must reflect on whether we have truly established the India we read about and celebrate.”
Recalling Jammu and Kashmir’s accession to India, he remarked, “Our people bravely fought against tribal invaders. Thousands lost their lives. Observing the situation in PoJK today, I believe our ancestors made the right decision 80 years ago.”
He added, “The situation across the border is concerning and distressing. That part of Kashmir is ours, and we have reserved seats in our assembly for that region.”
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