How to Appropriately Dispose of the Indian National Flag?
There are official guidelines for disposing of the Indian national flag respectfully according to the flag code of India 2002.
Just a few days back, we celebrated our 75 years of independence or the 76th Independence day. On this auspicious occasion, we even celebrated “The Har Ghar tiranga Mahotsav” announced by the central government which directed every Indian household to host a national flag in their house.Many of us hosted the national flag but after the celebration is completed, disposing of the flag in a proper way is as important as hosting it.
Since Many flags are abandoned every year after Independence Day celebrations. However, this year, fabric flags were distributed and it is hoped that they won't be thrown away and may be kept for a longer period of time. However, there are official guidelines for disposing of the Indian national flag respectfully according to the flag code of India 2002.
However, if the flag is not spoiled or damaged, it should be properly folded and kept in a clean and safe location, preferably a cupboard.We have already released a video, which shows the correct steps to properly fold the national flag.
As per code, when the Flag is in a damaged or soiled condition, it shall not be cast aside or disrespectfully disposed of but shall be destroyed as a whole in private, preferably by burning or by any other method consistent with the dignity of the Flag.
Meanwhile, if the flag is damaged or spoiled, here are the steps you should be used to dispose of it.
Steps:
How to dispose of the national flag by burying it?
To bury the flags, collect all the damaged flags in a wooden box. Fold them and place them properly. Bury the box in the earth. Observe a moment of silence once the flags are buried.
How to dispose of the flag by burning it?
Choose a safe place and clean it. Fold the flags. Build a fire and carefully place the flags in the center of the flames.
Flags burned without folding or burning them directly is an offense.
Notably, the punishment for disrespecting the flag under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, Is a jail term of up to 3 years or a fine or both.
Apart from the punishment, it should be considered the utmost duty of every citizen to respect the flag even after it has been damaged or spoiled. Have you properly disposed of the national flag? If not already make sure to follow the above mentioned steps while doing it.
