Omar Abdullah refuses to cut tricolour ribbon, asks organisers to keep it with respect during Kashmir Haat event | Watch

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday declined to cut an inaugural ribbon made in the colours of the national flag during an event in Srinagar. Instead, he untied the ribbon and handed it back to the organisers, asking that it be preserved with respect.

The incident took place during the inauguration of the “Know Your Artisans” event at Kashmir Haat. As Abdullah arrived at the venue, he noticed that the ribbon placed for the inauguration was designed in saffron, white, and green stripes resembling the national tricolour, following which he stopped before proceeding further.

He was accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, and other officials present at the event. After removing the ribbon, the Chief Minister continued with the scheduled programme without any disruption, while the moment was captured on camera and widely circulated on social media.

The gesture drew mixed reactions online, with several users and public figures appreciating his decision as a mark of respect for the national flag, while others questioned the event arrangement. Supporters described it as a thoughtful and sensitive action, while critics argued it reflected an oversight in protocol by the organisers.