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Independence Day 2024: India is celebrating its 78th Independence Day on August 15, 2024, and the Tricolour can be seen everywhere as citizens take pride in unfurling it. According to the Flag Code of India, paragraph 2.2, which came into effect on January 26, 2002, any person, organisation, private or public, or educational institution (including scout camps) can hoist or display the Tricolour on “all days or occasions by the dignity and honour of the National Flag”.
The flag can be as big or small as one wants “but the ratio of the length to the height (width) of the National Flag shall be 3:2″.
So, the flag must always be a rectangle rather than square or any other shape.
After an amendment on December 30, 2021, the material of the flag has been decided as “handspun and handwoven or machine-made, cotton, polyester, wool, silk or khadi bunting”.
If the flag is placed in the open or on the house of a member of the public, it may be flown day and night.
The National Flag cannot be flown on any vehicle except those of the President, Vice President, Prime Minister, Governor and other dignitaries.
The flag should also not be used to cover the sides, back, and top of any vehicle.
According to Section 2 of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, “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….shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years or with a fine, or with both”.
Proper Storage: Clean and Dry: Ensure the flag is clean and dry before storing it to prevent damage or discoloration.
Folding: Fold the flag neatly. Traditionally, the Indian National Flag is folded in a rectangular shape, ensuring the saffron band remains on top.
Storage Location: Store the flag in a clean, dry place away from moisture and pests. Using a protective cover or box can help maintain its condition.
Damaged or Soiled Flags: If the flag is damaged, torn, or soiled beyond repair, it should be disposed of in a respectful manner. The Flag Code of India recommends that such flags should be destroyed as a whole in private, preferably by burning or any other method consistent with the dignity of the flag.
Avoid Misuse: Do not use the flag as a drapery, festoon, or for any decoration in general. Ensure that the flag is not used as a costume or uniform. Do not print or embroider the flag on cushions, handkerchiefs, napkins, or any dress material.
Awareness: Educate others around you about the importance of handling the national flag respectfully. Encourage proper practices, especially during national events when flag usage is widespread.
