SRINAGAR, Jan 24: Surinder Choudhary, the Deputy Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, stated on Friday that the circular requiring participation in a Tiranga rally organized by the RSS-affiliated ABVP was inappropriate, emphasizing that the nation is for everyone, not solely for a specific political faction.
A directive from the chief education officer in Poonch asked school heads to send 40-50 students along with two teachers to the rally.
“India belongs to all, not just one individual or party. This flag represents all of us. If any political entity claims ownership, we reject that notion.
“Issuing such a circular is incorrect and should not have happened, particularly since January 26 and August 15 are days to honor the martyrs who sacrificed for our freedom,” Choudhary remarked to reporters.
The deputy CM was at the Hazratbal shrine to assess the preparations for the upcoming Shab-e-Mehraj, which is set to be observed on Monday.
When pressed for further comments by reporters regarding the issue, Choudhary reiterated that the circular should never have been created.
“If any official has put out such a circular, it is wrong. It should not have been done under the influence of a political party. This country belongs to every individual, irrespective of their faith or ethnicity, who has given their sacrifices,” he asserted.
“We will address the issue concerning the officer who issued the circular at the appropriate time,” the deputy chief minister added.
Leaders from the PDP have condemned the circular, accusing the government of utilizing education as a “propaganda tool” by “compelling” students to take part in the rally. (Agencies)
