On August 15th, 2021, India celebrated its 75th Independence Day. The Prime Minister of India hoisted the national flag at the Red Fort, continuing the tradition followed every year. The Indian National Flag, a symbol of the country’s pride and unity, has an interesting history and rules governing its use.
History of Adopting India’s Flag
India’s National Flag has evolved over time, with significant events marking its transformation.
In 1906, India’s first national flag was hoisted at the Parsee Bagan Square in Calcutta. Featuring three horizontal stripes of red, yellow, and green, it marked the beginning of a long process of refinement that would lead to the flag we know today.
By 1921, the basic design of the flag underwent a change proposed by freedom fighter Pingali Venkayya. He suggested the flag consist of two red and green bands which was later presented to Mahatma Gandhi.
After various modifications, the tricolour flag was adopted as India’s national flag during a Congress Committee meeting in Karachi in 1931.
Finally, on July 22, 1947, during a meeting of the Constituent Assembly the Indian flag was adopted in its present form.
Rules Governing the Tricolour
Being a symbol of national pride, the tricolour is governed by strict rules to prevent misuse and maintain its dignity.
The Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act, 1950, restricts the use of several national symbols including the flag, the coat-of-arms, the official seal of the President or Governor, pictorial representation of Mahatma Gandhi and the Prime Minister, and the Ashoka Chakra.
In addition, the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, protects the country’s national symbols from desecration or insult. Violation of this act can result in disqualification to contest in elections for six years.
The Flag Code of India, 2002
To further protect the dignity of the tricolour, the Flag Code of India was established in 2002. It comprises a general description of the tricolour along with rules for its display by public and private bodies, educational institutions, government organizations. Unrestricted display is permitted, provided that respect and honour are maintained. The code also emphasizes that flags used for official displays must adhere to specifications set by the Bureau of Indian Standards.
Constitutional Duties Regarding the Tricolour
The Constitution of India outlines the responsibilities of every citizen towards national symbols. Under Article 51A (a), it is the duty of every citizen to abide by the Constitution and respect its ideals, institutions, the National Flag and the National Anthem.
The evolution of the Indian National Flag and the laws governing its use demonstrate the country’s commitment to preserving and respecting its national symbols. These elements work together to promote national unity and integrity, instilling a sense of pride and respect among its citizens.
