As the nation gears up to celebrate the upcoming Republic Day, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has taken a significant step to ensure the preservation of the dignity of paper flags used during national, cultural, and sports events. In a circular issued this week, the MHA directed all states and Union territories to prevent the improper disposal or throwing of paper flags on the ground, emphasizing the need to treat the Indian National Flag with the utmost respect. The circular highlighted a noticeable lack of awareness among individuals and organizations regarding the laws, practices, and conventions related to the display of the National Flag. Despite the universal affection and respect for the flag, the MHA noted that there is often a perceptible lack of awareness about the regulations governing its proper usage. “There is universal affection and respect for, and loyalty to, the National flag. Yet, a perceptible lack of awareness is often noticed amongst people as well as organizations/agencies of the government, in regard to laws, practices and conventions that apply to the display of the National Flag,” stated the circular. Reiterating the importance of maintaining the dignity of paper flags, the MHA has emphasized that these flags should not be discarded or thrown on the ground after events. Instead, individuals are urged to dispose of them privately, in line with the principles outlined in the Flag Code of India. “As per clause (x) of Paragraph 2.2 of Part-II of the Flag Code of India, the National Flag made of paper may be waved by the public on occasions of important national, cultural, and sports events,” the circular mentioned. “You are requested to ensure that on the occasions of important national, cultural, and sports events, Flags used by the public, made of paper are not discarded or thrown on the ground after the event. Such Flags are to be disposed of, in private, consistent with the dignity of the Flag,” it further added. Recognizing the need for widespread awareness on this matter, the MHA has urged states and Union territories to conduct mass awareness programs to educate the public on the proper handling of paper flags during events. “You are also requested to undertake a mass awareness program in this regard and also to give it wide publicity through advertisements in the electronic and print media,” the circular specified.
Reiterating the importance of maintaining the dignity of paper flags, the MHA has emphasized that these flags should not be discarded or thrown on the ground after events. Instead, individuals are urged to dispose of them privately, in line with the principles outlined in the Flag Code of India. “As per clause (x) of Paragraph 2.2 of Part-II of the Flag Code of India, the National Flag made of paper may be waved by the public on occasions of important national, cultural, and sports events.”
IGP Kashmir V K Birdhi’s Marathon Meet In Srinagar For Seamless Republic Day Celebrations
This week, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Zone, V. K Birdi, spearheaded a comprehensive review meeting at the Police Control Room (PCR) Kashmir to evaluate the arrangements for the upcoming event. During the session, IGP Kashmir commended the diligent efforts of the police force and urged all officers to maintain a heightened state of vigilance leading up to the January 26 celebrations in the Valley. The participating officers briefed IGP Kashmir on the preparations made for the Republic Day celebrations, outlining detailed plans to bolster security, safeguard public spaces, and ensure the orderly execution of the event. He also assigned specific tasks to the officers and issued clear directives for meticulous planning and execution of assignments, focusing on crucial arrangements for the seamless conduct of the event. Key aspects discussed during the meeting included crowd management strategies, traffic control plans, intelligence updates, and the strategic deployment of police personnel. IGP Birdi emphasized the need for effective traffic management during the Republic Day-2024 celebrations. In particular, IGP Kashmir directed the SSP Traffic City to devise a comprehensive traffic plan, ensuring uninterrupted movement of public and private vehicles, along with the smooth transit of protected persons. Recognizing the importance of seamless traffic flow during the celebrations, IGP Birdi instructed the Senior Superintendent of Police Srinagar to establish close coordination with the traffic police to streamline traffic and minimize disruptions. The meeting witnessed the attendance of key officials, including DIG NKR Baramulla Vivek Gupta-IPS, DIG Armed Shahid Mehraj-IPS, DIG IRP Abdul Qayoom-IPS, SSP Srinagar, SSP PCR Kashmir, SSP CID SBK, SSP Traffic, SSP Security, SSP Telecommunication, SP South Srinagar, SP PC Srinagar, and SP APCR.
Meanwhile Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, extended a warm invitation to the public to participate in the upcoming 76th Republic Day celebrations at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar. He emphasized that there is no requirement for any special pass or permit for those eager to attend the event.
Talking to Kashmir Horizon Div Com Kashmir Vijay Kumar Bidhuri said that the overwhelming support received during the August 15 celebrations at Bakshi Stadium inspired confidence for the Republic Day event. He expressed expectations for a large turnout and cited the encouragement from LG Manoj Sinha, who urged active participation, emphasizing that Republic Day is a festival for everyone. Div Com Bidhuri shared that numerous cultural programs are scheduled at Bakshi Stadium, with no restrictions on public movement or any hindrances. He assured that a valid ID card is sufficient as an open invitation for people to join in the celebrations. Regarding security measures in Kashmir, Div Com Bidhuri reassured the public that security arrangements are in place and have been intensified in certain areas to ensure the safety and security of all attendees, including the police force.
“The open invitation without the need for special passes or permits emphasizes inclusivity. It encourages people from all walks of life to actively engage in the celebrations, promoting a sense of belonging and shared identity. This inclusive approach aligns with the vision of Republic Day being a festival for everyone. The fact that security measures are in place but without imposing unnecessary restrictions reflects the positive changes in the region. The assurance of safety and the absence of previous constraints on public movement and internet access signify a step towards normalcy, fostering a conducive environment for citizens to participate freely. The endorsement and encouragement from leaders, such as LG Manoj Sinha, add significance to the event.”
Kashmir Horizon View: The nation eagerly awaits the celebration of Republic Day, the MHA’s circular stands as a beacon for responsible and respectful conduct. By safeguarding the dignity of paper flags during significant events, citizens contribute to the larger narrative of preserving the sanctity of national symbols. It is a small yet impactful step towards fostering a culture of reverence and patriotism, ensuring that the tricolor continues to inspire pride and unity for generations to come. This move by the MHA comes as a proactive step to address the potential disrespect faced by paper flags after events of national significance. Republic Day, celebrated on January 26th, holds paramount importance in the history of the nation, marking the day when the Constitution of India came into effect in 1950. While Republic Day is a symbol of national unity and patriotism. The event brings people together to celebrate the values of democracy, justice, liberty, and equality enshrined in the Constitution of India. By actively participating in the celebrations, citizens reinforce their commitment to the ideals that the country stands for. The cultural programs scheduled at Bakshi Stadium provide a platform to showcase the rich and diverse cultural heritage of Kashmir and the entire nation. These performances celebrate the unity in diversity that defines India and contribute to fostering a sense of national pride. The open invitation without the need for special passes or permits emphasizes inclusivity. It encourages people from all walks of life to actively engage in the celebrations, promoting a sense of belonging and shared identity. This inclusive approach aligns with the vision of Republic Day being a festival for everyone. The fact that security measures are in place but without imposing unnecessary restrictions reflects the positive changes in the region. The assurance of safety and the absence of previous constraints on public movement and internet access signify a step towards normalcy, fostering a conducive environment for citizens to participate freely. The endorsement and encouragement from leaders, such as LG Manoj Sinha, add significance to the event. Their call for active participation underscores the importance of citizens’ involvement in the commemoration of national events, reinforcing a sense of collective responsibility. Republic Day celebrations at Bakshi Stadium serve as a platform for fostering national unity, celebrating democratic values, showcasing cultural diversity, promoting inclusivity, ensuring security, and marking positive changes in the region. It is a momentous occasion that resonates with the spirit of a democratic and culturally rich India.
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