J-K Minister accuses BJP of politicising flag-hoisting issue

Jammu, Jan 21 (ANI): Jammu and Kashmir Law Minister Ali Mohammad Sagar on Friday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of politicising the flag-hoisting issue, asserting that it is an attempt to derail the peace process in the restive region.

"Advani Ji (senior BJP leader) is not fighting with the separatist. We are fighting with the separatists. He is sitting in Delhi and talking about separatists. We are fighting with them since last 20 years," Sagar told reporters here.

"We will not allow the BJP to hoist the national flag in Srinagar, as that is not in the interest of the Jammu and Kashmir," he added.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has decided to stop BJP's 'Ekta Yatra', flagged off earlier this month by party chief Nitin Gadkari.

Earlier on Wednesday, Abdullah met Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram in New Delhi ahead of the BJP's planned 'Ekta Yatra' in the state, and raised concerns over the flag hoisting as the situation remains fragile in the state, and a minor incident or act might provoke the people of Kashmir.

Talking to reporters after the meeting, Abdullah said: "I have given my assessment of the law and order situation regarding January 26 and the BJP's 'Ekta Yatra', the Home Minister too has his assessment. I am not going to share the details of our plan."

He said since January 26 and August 15 are sensitive dates, and added that the state government will be in constant touch with the Home Ministry.

Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) national president Anurag Thakur is leading the 'Rashtriya Ekta Yatra' - flagged off on January 12 at Kolkata and scheduled to reach Srinagar on January 26.

The yatra will cover 3,037 km and enter the State on the afternoon of January 24 at Pathankot. (ANI)