The Prime Minister of India would hoist the national flag Tricolour atop the grounds of the Red Fort on India's 78th Independence Day on August 15, and every Indian would do so in their own capacity. It is pertinent to know the codes of proper disposal of the Tricolour after Independence Day. The guidelines for disposing of the Tricolour are charted primarily in the Flag Code of India, 2002 (amended on July 19, 2022) with additional rules in the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971.

With the "Har Ghar Tiranga" movement in full swing nation-wide, here is a detailed guide to the rules and regulations to keep in mind and adhere to while hoisting and disposing of the Tricolour post the flag-hosting ceremony.

Rules of Hoisting the National Flag of India

As per the National Flag Code of India 2002, citizens must uphold the dignity of the Indian national flag while hoisting it and adhere to the proper rules of its hoisting and display. During the hoisting of the flag, one is supposed to be in a formal uniform, stand in attention and salute the flag, as it rises up the pole.

When the 'Tricolour' is displayed horizontally, one must ensure that the saffron band is at the top. When the flag is displayed vertically, the saffron band should be on the right side if viewed from the front. Moreover, if the national flag is exhibited from a pole, as during the flag hoisting ceremonies, whether it is extending horizontally or at an incline, the saffron band should be at the outer end of the staff.

Rules of Storing the National Flag

The National Flag Code of India 2002 states that rules to disposed of the Indian national flag in a proper and dignified manner. As per rules, during the lowering of the flag from the mast, one is to be dressed in proper formal uniform, render an appropriate salute and stand in attention or salute, as the flag passes them while descending the pole. A dignitary may take the salute without a head dress.

After the lowering ceremony has concluded, the national flag is to be lowered slowly, folded in proper manner and stored in a way that does not destroy or cause damage to it. However, if the flag is damaged, the Code provides for separate rules of disposing of it. Independence Day in India 2024 Date and History: Know Significance of the Day That Marks the End of British Rule.

How to Dispose of Damaged National Flag of India?

There are specified rules if the national flag is accidently damaged or torn. The Code states that all the damaged national flags shall be disposed of as a whole flag in a dignified manner. This can be done by in two sanctioned ways - either by burying the flag or by burning it in private. While burying the damaged flag, it should be gathered, folded and placed in a wooden box and only then buried in the ground. A moment of silence is to be observed during the burial of the flag.  Independence Day Speech by PM Modi From 2014 to 2023: Watch Videos of Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ahead of 78th Independence Day Celebrations on August 15. 

 

However, while burning the national flag, the selection and preparation of a secure site is also important. After properly folding the damaged national flag, it is to be placed at the centre of the flames. Note that the burning of the Tricolour is illegal without folding it properly.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 14, 2024 04:44 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).