Hyderabad: Tensions flared near the Telangana Secretariat after a local youth pulled down the Israeli flag hoisted as part of the Miss World event, triggering political outcry and a digital firestorm.
The youth, identified as Zakir, was filmed removing the flag in protest. He uploaded the video himself—what followed was swift and viral. Within hours, reposts flooded social media platforms, turning a solitary act into a statewide controversy.
Flags of several nations had been placed outside the Secretariat to celebrate cultural diversity and international unity as part of the global pageant. Among them, Israel’s flag. That was Zakir’s target.
Public reaction split quickly. Some hailed it as an act of solidarity with Palestinians, praising Zakir for taking a visible stand against alleged injustices. Supporters framed the action as civil resistance, not vandalism.
Others weren’t so forgiving. Critics slammed it as unlawful, disrespectful, and in breach of diplomatic protocol. They argued that personal beliefs didn’t justify tampering with international symbols installed by the state.
Hyderabad Police has registered a case and arrested the accused. Further investigation is underway.
