Hardline Hurriyat Conference Leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani said that Pakistani flags "would continue to be hoisted" in Kashmir. Geelani said this days after Home Minister Rajnath Singh warned of strict action against those indulging in such acts. The separatist leaders also maintained that Pakistan is India's benefactor and is supporting the right of self determination to Kashmir. Pakistani flags have appeared at several separatist rallies in Kashmir since April 15 this year, leading to severe criticism of the state government by opposition parties. The first instance took place on April 15 during a rally organised by Hurriyat to welcome Geelani from Delhi. The state government reacted by arresting Masarat Alam and booking him under the Public Safety Act.
