Srinagar witnessed a significant moment as CM Omar Abdullah hoisted the Tricolor at Bakshi Stadium on Independence Day, marking the first time in eight years that an elected Chief Minister presided over the ceremony in Jammu and Kashmir. This event ended a period where Governors and Lieutenant Governors had taken the lead in flag hoisting. The previous instance of a Chief Minister officiating the celebrations was in 2017 under Mehbooba Mufti, before political shifts led to Governor’s rule in 2018.
The Independence Day event included a guard of honor and a parade inspection by Abdullah. He also reviewed the march-past of various forces and school children. Other cabinet members of Abdullah also presided over similar celebrations in other districts. In a show of respect, the cultural program, which is usually a highlight, was canceled as a tribute to those who lost their lives in the recent Kishtwar floods.
From 2018 to 2019, the flag was hoisted by the Governor, followed by the Lieutenant Governor from 2020 to 2024. The absence of an elected government was a feature of the region after the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019. Following the revocation of Article 370, elections were held last year, which led to Omar Abdullah becoming the first Chief Minister of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.