The Jammu and Kashmir administration has initiated an investigation into National Conference MLA Hilal Akbar Lone after he was observed not standing during the National Anthem at a recent ceremonial event. This incident occurred during the oath-taking ceremony of Omar Abdullah as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) on Wednesday.

According to top intelligence sources, several attendees, including Lone, remained seated when the National Anthem was played, prompting scrutiny from officials. To verify the claims, CCTV footage of the event is currently being reviewed.

When questioned about his actions, Lone attributed his failure to stand to a medical condition. However, sources reported that just a few hours prior to the ceremony, he was seen standing and participating actively, including giving interviews to the media.

In light of these conflicting accounts, authorities have decided to thoroughly examine the footage from the entire event to identify all individuals who did not stand during the National Anthem.

Prior to the ceremony, Lone was captured in a television interview discussing the importance of the event, emphasizing the need for concerted efforts towards the development of Jammu and Kashmir, the restoration of Article 370, and the pursuit of full statehood.

The investigation is ongoing, and further updates are expected as more information emerges regarding the attendees’ conduct during the National Anthem.