4 days ago
Independence Day 2025: How to correctly honor the Indian flag without falling foul of the law
Every year on August 15, the Indian tricolour rises across the country, from schools and colleges to offices and public spaces. Many of us first saw the flag being hoisted on television by the Prime Minister, sitting with family at home. As we grew older, we witnessed similar ceremonies in our communities, schools, colleges, and workplaces.
The tradition of hoisting the flag
The tradition of hoisting the flag dates back to August 15, 1947, when Jawaharlal Nehru unfurled it at the Red Fort, signaling the end of British rule. Today, flag hoisting remains a central part of Independence Day celebrations, often accompanied by speeches and cultural programs. But while it may seem simple, the act of raising the tricolour comes with strict rules to maintain its dignity.
Rules you cannot ignore with the flag code
Have you ever wondered if it's okay to fly the Indian flag any day you like? Or what really happens if someone disrespects it? The Flag Code of India, last updated on January 26, 2002, sets the rules straight.
According to it, citizens and institutions can display the tricolor anytime, not just on national holidays, as long as they follow the guidelines. Schools, colleges, and camps often hoist it during ceremonies, sometimes even including an oath of allegiance. Private citizens can proudly fly the flag on their homes or property.
But did you know there are strict rules you can't ignore? The flag must never touch the ground, floor, or water. It cannot be used as clothing, decoration, or drapery, and nothing, no other flag, no flowers, should ever sit above it. The tricolor should only fly from sunrise to sunset and always be treated with respect.
झंडा ऊंचा रहे हमारा. Yes, always but then why we see it soiled, littered and ignored once the day gets of unusable Tiranga Flag Code of India, 2002 says, if the flag has become damaged, soiled, or is otherwise unusable, it should be destroyed as a whole, in…
तिरंगे का सम्मान करें, नियमों का पालन करें!फ्लैग कोड के अनुसार 🇮🇳 पर कोई भी शब्द, वाक्य या स्लोगन लिखना मना है।✅ तिरंगा हमेशा अपने मूल रूप में ही फहराएं।#KnowYourTiranga #FlagCodeOfIndia #HarGharTiranga
Consequences of disrespect
But what really happens if someone crosses the line? Under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, the law is clear. Section 2 states that anyone who burns, defaces, tramples, or otherwise disrespects the Indian flag in public view can face up to three years in prison, a fine, or even both.
Have you ever hoisted the Indian flag without being aware of all the dos and don'ts?
To stay updated on the stories that are going viral follow Indiatimes Trending.
