Jammu, Feb 3: BJP leader Dr. Abhijeet Singh Jasrotia strongly criticized Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for missing the “Beating the Retreat” ceremony, calling it an insult to the spirit of democracy and the Constitution of India. Addressing a press conference at the BJP headquarters in Trikuta Nagar, Jammu, Dr. Jasrotia was joined by Dr. Pardeep Mahotra, State Media Secretary, and Dr. Parneesh Mahajan, Training Department Incharge.
“A Disrespect to Democracy”
Dr. Jasrotia expressed disappointment over the absence of the CM and his cabinet members at the event, stating, “This is the first time in history that a Chief Minister and his ministers have skipped this important ceremony, which symbolizes our vibrant democracy. Omar Abdullah holds his position because of the Constitution, and his absence from an event honoring it raises serious concerns.”
He further accused the Chief Minister of disregarding the sacrifices made by freedom fighters and the values enshrined in the Constitution. “The very people who claim to uphold the Constitution have shown complete disregard for it. This is a betrayal of the democratic ethos of our nation,” he said.
“A Question of Allegiance?”
Taking a sharp dig at the CM, Dr. Jasrotia questioned whether Omar Abdullah was aligning himself with separatist ideologies. “Is he following the narrative of Akbar Lone and preparing to chant ‘Pakistan Zindabad’? His refusal to attend a national event speaks volumes about his priorities,” he remarked.
Dr. Jasrotia accused Abdullah of prioritizing dynasty politics over democratic values. “Instead of embracing ‘Gana-Tantra’ (republicanism), he still operates within ‘Parivar-Tantra’ (family rule). Ignoring an official invitation for a national event is nothing short of disrespecting the democratic framework,” he asserted.
“An Apology Demanded”
Concluding his remarks, Dr. Jasrotia demanded an explanation from the CM and his ministers for their absence. “By skipping the ceremony, they have played with the emotions of 148 crore Indians. Omar Abdullah must answer whether this was a deliberate act of defiance against the celebration of democracy,” he stated.
The controversy has sparked a heated political debate, with BJP leaders insisting that such actions undermine national unity and democratic values.