The newly elected MLA allegedly remained seated when the National Anthem was played at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC). Some other individuals were also seen not standing. CCTV footage of the event is being reviewed by the police.
NC MLA Hilal Akbar Lone (Photo: X)
The Srinagar Police have initiated an inquiry against Hilal Akbar Lone, a ruling National Conference MLA, for allegedly disrespecting the National Anthem by not standing when it was played on Wednesday at the conclusion of the swearing-in ceremony of J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah by Lt Governor Manoj Sinha.
On Thursday, the Srinagar Police posted on X: “Police have taken cognizance of an incident where an individual did not stand up during the playing of the National Anthem. A preliminary inquiry by an SP-rank officer under Section 173 (3) of the BNSS has been initiated, and electronic evidence is being analyzed for further legal action.”
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The newly elected MLA allegedly remained seated when the National Anthem was played at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC). Some other individuals were also seen not standing. CCTV footage of the event is being reviewed by the police.
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When questioned, Lone reportedly claimed he remained seated due to a medical condition, although shortly before this, he was seen giving interviews to TV channels.
It is worth noting that Lone’s father, Mohammad Akbar Lone, also sparked controversy a few years ago when, as an MLA, he raised pro-Pakistan slogans in the J&K Assembly.
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