National Conference patron Farooq Abdullah on Friday drew flak from all quarters for talking on his mobile phone while the national anthem was being played at the swearing-in ceremony of Mamata Banerjee as the West Bengal' Chief Minister.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) dubbed the incident as unfortunate and asked Abdullah to tender an apology.
"It is the responsibility of every Indian to respect the national anthem. Dr. Farooq Abdullah is an eminent politician, we don't expect such behaviour from leaders like him," said BJP leader Ravinder Raina.
"Nothing is more unfortunate than disrespecting the national anthem. It is highly condemnable. He owes an explanation. He should tender an apology," he added.
Meanwhile, National Panther Party (NPP) also condemned the act and called for strict action against the former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister.
"It is disrespect to the national anthem... It should be taken seriously followed by action," said NPP leader Harshdev Singh.
Abdullah stirred a controversy earlier today as was caught on camera talking on phone during the national anthem at Banerjee's swearing-in ceremony as the West Bengal Chief Minister for the second consecutive term.
