ES Reporter 

NIRJULI, May 15: Following a viral social media post dated May 14 alleging the display of Pakistan’s national flag on a hotel hoarding in Nirjuli, the Nirjuli Police promptly initiated an inquiry to ascertain the authenticity and context of the incident. Upon verification, authorities have confirmed that the symbol in question was not the Pakistan flag but an Islamic religious motif.
The hotel in question, M/S Ajmat Restaurant and Beef Hotel, located at Bage Tinali, Nirjuli, operates under a valid trading license (IMC/DEV-23/2025/349) issued by the Itanagar Municipal Corporation on February 24, 2025. The establishment also possesses a food safety certificate issued by the Health and Family Welfare Department of Arunachal Pradesh, valid until January 23, 2030.
SP, Naharlagun informed that the hotel is run by one  Ashfaque Khan (41), a resident of Jahangirpur, District Sheohar, Bihar. Currently out of state for personal reasons,  Khan had entrusted the daily operations to his staff. Among them is Md. Sohali (34), a cook from Mahmed village, East Champaran, Bihar, who holds a valid Inner Line Permit (ILP) under the care of Mrs. Tadar Jumsi, valid until February 21, 2026.
Upon learning of the allegations, the building owner voluntarily removed the hoarding on May 14 and submitted it to the Nirjuli Police for examination. The police have since confirmed that the image depicted a crescent moon and star accompanied by the number “786,” a commonly recognized Islamic symbol. The design bore resemblance to the Pakistani flag in color and shape, which may have contributed to the misunderstanding online.
"There was no malicious intent behind the hoarding. It was not the national flag of any foreign country but a religious symbol. We appreciate the cooperation of the hotel owner in removing the hoarding to avoid further confusion," added the SP.
Further, authorities have urged the public to refrain from spreading misinformation that could incite communal disharmony. "The police remain vigilant against any anti-national activity. All public displays must comply with legal standards to ensure peace and order," the statement added.
The Nirjuli Police continue to monitor the situation and encourage citizens to verify facts before sharing unverified content on social media platforms.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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