In a notable event, CM Omar Abdullah hoisted the Tricolor at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar during the Independence Day celebrations, ending an eight-year period where elected leadership was absent from the flag-hoisting ceremony in Jammu and Kashmir. The last time a Chief Minister presided over the event was in 2017 under Mehbooba Mufti. The state then witnessed Governor’s rule following political changes in 2018.
During the ceremony, Abdullah received a guard of honor and inspected the parade contingents. He also reviewed the march-past of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Central Armed Paramilitary Forces, and school children. The cabinet members also played a role in presiding over events in other district headquarters. The cultural program was canceled as a sign of respect for those affected by the recent floods in Kishtwar.
The national flag was hoisted by the Governor in 2018 and 2019, and by the Lieutenant Governor from 2020 through 2024. The region was under central or gubernatorial rule until the end of last year when elections were held. The revocation of Article 370 in August 2019 marked the beginning of this period. Elections held after the abrogation led to Omar Abdullah becoming the first Chief Minister of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.