As the patriotic fervor of Independence Day subsides, it is now time to lower and store the proudly hoisted national flag respectfully. Continue reading to learn the appropriate procedure.
Delhi witnessed India’s grand celebration of 75 years of independence on August 15th. Countless homes proudly raised the Indian National Flag, fueled by the patriotic fervor of the Har Ghar Tiranga Campaign. Now that the festivities have concluded, you may wonder how to respectfully retire and store your flags. Fear not, as here are the essential steps to uphold the dignity of the Indian national flag and adhere to the guidelines outlined in the Flag Code of 2002. Those who possess cloth flags must ensure their safekeeping.
Here are steps to rightfully fold the flag and keep it back
- Place the National Flag horizontally.
- Then hold the tricolor and fold the saffron and green bands under the middle white band.
- Make sure the Ashok Chakra is visible with the saffron and green bands while folding the white band.
- After completing the above steps, store the folded flag on your palms or arms.
Other ways to store the flag
As per the Flag Code, it is stated that “When the Flag is in a damaged or soiled state, it should be respectfully disposed of in its entirety, preferably through burning or any other appropriate method that upholds the flag’s dignity.”
By burying
To properly bury the flags, gather all the damaged flags and place them inside a wooden box. Carefully fold the flags and arrange them appropriately within the box. Once prepared, proceed to bury the box in the ground. As you complete this act, take a moment to observe a respectful silence.
By burning
According to a Hindustan Times report, selecting a safe location and ensuring its cleanliness is essential. Then, proceed to fold the flag appropriately before creating a controlled fire. Carefully place the folded flag at the center of the flames. Following the correct procedure of folding and burning the flag is imperative, as it is considered an offense to burn it without proper folding or burning protocols.
Other ways
The Delhi Municipal Corporation is actively involved in this process as well. In an interview with the news agency PTI, the MCD director (Press and Information) stated that the organization places significant value and respect on the national flag. Consequently, special instructions have been issued to the Safai Sainiks (sanitation workers) to separate disheveled or soiled flags and deliver them to their respective zonal control rooms. This ensures the flags are handled with the appropriate care and attention they deserve.
Also Read:
4 Countries celebrate their I-Day with India’s Independence Day
How India Celebrated 76th Independence Day with Patriotism and Pride
Top Most Indian Films to watch on independence day 2023
What happens if you disregard the disposal process?
Section 2 of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, it is stated that individuals who engage in actions that bring the Indian National Flag into contempt, such as burning, mutilating, defacing, defiling, disfiguring, destroying, trampling upon, or any other disrespectful acts (whether through spoken or written words or actions), in a public or visible location, may be subject to punishment. This punishment can include imprisonment for up to three years, a fine, or both.
Therefore, following the appropriate procedures for respectfully disposing of or taking down the flags at home is crucial.
The Har Ghar Tiranga campaign was conducted as a part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, aiming to encourage individuals to bring the Indian National Flag into their homes. The campaign aimed to foster a personal connection with the national flag, moving beyond its formal or institutional significance. As part of this nationwide initiative, numerous monuments, government buildings, and railway stations were illuminated in the colors of the tricolor across India.
