Cong leaders question Centre on 'abrupt' ceasefire with Pak

Former chief minister Ashok Gehlot, along with Congress leaders Randeep Surjewala and Sachin Pilot, on Monday targeted the central government on the "abrupt" ceasefire with Pakistan, and alleged disrespect towards the national flag.

- Mukesh Mathrani

BARMER: Former chief minister Ashok Gehlot, along with Congress leaders Randeep Surjewala and Sachin Pilot, on Monday targeted the central government on the "abrupt" ceasefire with Pakistan, and alleged disrespect towards the national flag.

While addressing a "Jai Hind" rally in Barmer district to honour the armed forces, Gehlot raised concerns over the sudden ceasefire with Pakistan. "Why was a ceasefire declared so abruptly? If talks were ongoing, the country should have been informed," he questioned. He raised doubts about the US President's involvement, saying, "Who is America to mediate?" and warned of a "dangerous game" being played with the ceasefire.

"If the BJP had their way, they would abolish the Tricolour and replace it with the RSS flag." he further said.

He also questioned the RSS's patriotism, highlighting that their Nagpur headquarters reportedly did not hoist the national flag for 80 years. The former CM also criticised BJP leaders for allegedly wiping their faces with the national flag during rallies and trampling on it, claiming they have no understanding of the Tricolour's honour.

During the recently held Tiranga Yatra led by chief minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, a controversy erupted after BJP legislator from Jaipur's Hawa Mahal, Swami Balmukundacharya, also known as Sanjay Sharma, was allegedly seen wiping his nose with national flag. However, when he realised that the piece of cloth in his hand was the national flag, he could be seen quickly handing it over to another person and using a different cloth to wipe his face.