Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Oct 17: Police have launched an investigation against National Conference (NC) Member Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Sonawari, Hilal Akbar Lone, after he was found not standing for the National Anthem on October 16 during the oath ceremony of Omar Abdullah as Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.
Police in Srinagar said that they have taken cognizance of an incident where an individual did not stand up during the playing of the National Anthem.
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“A preliminary enquiry by an SP rank officer under Section 173 (3) of the BNSS has been initiated, and electronic evidence is being analysed for further course of legal action”, it said.
Lone said that he had no intention to disrespect either the Constitution or the National Anthem. He said that he developed a cramp during the anthem, which led to him sitting down briefly before standing up again.
“I had no intention to insult the Constitution of India or the National Anthem. During the anthem, I developed a cramp and sat down for a moment due to back pain,” he said.
The MLA Sonwari said that there was no offence committed as per the Supreme Court’s observation, which states that it is not an offence if someone does not stand during the National Anthem unless there is a disruption or ruckus created.
“There is a Supreme Court observation regarding the National Anthem. If a person doesn’t stand up while it is being played, it is no offence. But creating a ruckus or disruption while it is being played is an offence,” he added.
Lone said he was ready to face any probe and had medical evidence to support his claim of back pain. “So far, I have not been contacted as yet. If they contact me, I am ready to face the probe. I have the evidence as regards to the ailment I have,” he said.
Lone further said that he is committed to ensure that the issue does not harm his party or embarrass his Chief Minister.
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