Dos and don’ts to handle Indian Flag
The Indian National Flag is a symbol of pride for every citizen of the country. We honour the tricolour as it reminds us of the struggles of our freedom fighters, leading to our sovereignty as a nation. We proudly display the national flag in our homes, offices, and public places on occasional days as a mark of celebration.
But what happens when the fanfare dies down? We see the flags lying about in the streets, roads, and ditches. We forget to dispose of the flag which also ends up littering the roads. So, what do we do with the flag after the celebration? The Government of India laid down the protocols in the Flag Code of India 2002. It also mentions who is allowed to display the flag, when and where.
What do we do with soiled or damaged flags?
In the first place, we must not use or store the flag in a manner that it might get soiled or damaged. Any flag in such conditions should never be displayed.
In the first place, we must not use or store the flag in a manner that it might get soiled or damaged. Any flag in such conditions should never be displayed.
As per the Flag Code of India 2002, Section 5 – Point 3.25, soiled or damaged national flags must be disposed of in a respectful manner. It could be either by burning the flag as a whole in private or any other method consistent with the dignity of the flag.
While maintaining the dignity of the flag, we can consider disposing it in two ways:
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Fold the damaged flag and placed in the centre of the flame. Let the fire burn until it consumed the entire flag.
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Or keep the damaged flag in a wooden box and bury it.
Similarly, instead of throwing away national flags made of paper in a dustbin or on the road, we must collect and dispose them of either by burning or burying them. At all times we must show respect for the flag and not simply cast it away disrespectfully. [Source]
Who can display the national flag in motor cars?
The general public can display the national flag on Independence Day, Republic Day, or during important events, consistent with the dignity and honour of the flag. But we need to remember that displaying on vehicles is restricted only to a select few. As per the Indian Flag Code 2002, only people who hold important designations can display the national flag in their motor cars. The President, Vice-President, Governors/ Lt. Governors, Chief Justice of India, Speaker/Dy. Speaker of the Lok Sabha, judges of Supreme Court and High Courts, Chief Justice of High Courts, Heads of Indian Missions, Prime Minister and Cabinet Ministers, Chief ministers of states, etc. (See the complete list in Flag Code of India 2002: Section 9, para 3.44)
When can we display the national flag?
The general public, private organisations, and educational institutions can display the national flag on all days or occasions. However, we must observe the dignity of the flag at all times. Earlier, the national flag could be displayed only between sunrise and sunset. But in 2022, the Indian government amended the Flag Code so that it can be displayed at night as well.
Here is a book by K. V. Singh about the history of Indian Flag.
As Indians, it is our duty to honour the tricolour, where Saffron represents Courage & Sacrifice, White: Peace & Truth, and Green: Faith & Chivalry.
Happy Republic Day.
