Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday (April 15, 2026) refused to cut an inaugural ribbon in saffron, white and green stripes, instead untying it and handing it to the organisers with the instruction that it be folded and kept with respect.

Mr. Abdullah was inaugurating the 'Know Your Artisans' event at the Kashmir Haat in Srinagar. In a moment that was captured by camera crews and quickly went viral on social media platforms, the Chief Minister was seen walking towards the ribbon stretched across and then stopping short as he noticed the tricolours.

He was accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, his advisor Nasir Aslam Wani and a host of others.

The ribbon dispensed with, Mr. Abdullah went on with the rest of the proceedings at the Kashmir Haat in the heart of the city.

The gesture of not cutting the ribbon won him widespread praise on social media platforms.

"This is what real respect for the Tiranga looks like. In a time when patriotism is often reduced to cheap TV debates... actions like these speak louder than words," National Conference leader Gagan Bhagat said on X.

"A thoughtful call... reflecting both respect and sensitivity," added Sheikh Khalid Jehangir, director and visiting fellow at the International Centre for Peace Studies.

Congress' social media handler Mir Ilyas lauded Mr. Abdullah for his presence of mind. The incident, which raised many eyebrows also led to questions on the oversight by the private organisation handling the event.

"Omar Abdullah decides not to cut the Tricolour put as a ribbon... Did the people who invited him not think this through?" said Monica Verma, a PhD student in international relations.