Ways to dispose off damaged Indian national flag with dignity

Bengaluru, Aug. 16: The Indian National Flag represents the hopes and aspirations of the people of India . It is the symbol of our national pride. Over the last seven decades, millions, including members of our beloved armed forces have ungrudgingly laid down their precious lives to keep the tricolour flying in its full glory, says Dr. P. R. S. Chetan,
Gallantry Shaurya Medal awardee.

India celebrated its 75th Independence Day Azadi Ka Amrit Mahoutsav on August 15. To mark the occasion, several cultural and traditional events will be organised and once again we all will be overwhelmed by a feeling of extreme patriotism.

We have flaunted the national flag with proud in every way possible way – right from wearing tricolour clothes to displaying flags on vehicles. Not to forget the selfies uploaded on the social media. Over the years, it has become a trend sort of.

It would be disheartening to see flags found littered on the ground or in a bin, he says.

Educating about National flag code he says, as per the prevention of insults to National Honour Act 1971 & National Flag code 2002 “whoever in any public place or in any other place within public view burns, mutilates, defaces, defiles, disfigures, destroys, tramples upon or otherwise brings into contempt whether by words , (either spoken or written, or by acts) the Indian National Flag or any part thereof, shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years or with fine or with both.

But do you know treating the national flag with disrespect is an offense as per the rules mentioned in the Flag Code of India, 2002. According to the rules, there is a proper way to dispose of soiled or torn national flag, he says.

As per the Flag Code of India, 2002, there are two ways to dispose of the national flag – burning or burying. Even while choosing any of the processes a strict rule has to be followed. To bury the flags, collect all the damaged flags in a wooden box. Fold them and place it properly. Bury the box in the earth. Observe a moment of silence once the flags are buried. The second option is to burn the flag. Choose a safe place and clean it. Fold the flags. Build a fire and carefully place the flags in the center of the flames. Flags burned without folding or burning the flags first and then putting it on fire is an offense. It should be noted that the national flag is a symbol of pride and its dignity should be maintained while disposing of it.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has urged everyone to avoid the use of the national flag of India made of plastic and has asked the states and Union territories to ensure strict compliance with the flag code. On every 15 Aug or 26 Jan, make a difference and respect the national flag of India by following the rules of disposal of the Indian national flag.

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