District Administration reiterates Flag Code norms

way2barak, January 25:–With the 77th Republic Day approaching, the Cachar District Administration has reiterated the provisions of the Flag Code of India and issued a heartfelt appeal to citizens to uphold the dignity, sanctity, and honour of the Indian National Flag during Republic Day celebrations across the district.

Emphasising that Republic Day is marked by the ceremonial unfurling of the National Flag, the administration clarified that the Tricolour is to be unfurled briskly from the the top of the flagpole, symbolising the birth of the Republic. The saffron band must always remain uppermost. The flag must be accorded a place of prominence and should never be overshadowed by any other object or emblem. It must be clean, intact, and conform to the prescribed 3:2 ratio between length and width.

The administration further reminded citizens that, following the 2022 amendment to the Flag Code of India, the National Flag may be flown both day and night, provided it is properly illuminated and displayed in a dignified manner. Flags made of hand-spun, hand-woven, or machine-made cotton, polyester, wool, silk, or khadi bunting are permitted, provided they are free from stains, tears, or fading.

Strict adherence to prohibitions has also been stressed to preserve the honour of the Tricolour. The flag must never touch the ground, floor, or water, nor be flown upside down or dipped in salute to any person or object. Its use as a decorative or commercial item, including printing or writing upon it, is prohibited. While wearing the flag respectfully in the form of a lapel pin or emblem is permitted, its use on garments worn below the waist is not allowed. Draping the flag over vehicles, buildings, or platforms is prohibited, except in the case of state or military funerals.

The District Administration has also highlighted that damaged or soiled flags should be retired in a private and dignified manner, preferably by burning, and careless storage that may lead to disrespect or damage must be avoided. Any act of intentional disrespect, mutilation, or desecration of the National Flag is a punishable offence under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971.

As Cachar prepares for Republic Day celebrations featuring unfurling of National flag ceremonies, cultural programmes, and tributes to freedom fighters, the District Administration has called upon citizens to view the unfurling of the Tricolour not merely as a ceremonial act, but as a solemn reaffirmation of the unity, integrity, and ideals of the Republic of India.

This was stated in a press release issued by the Regional Office of Information & Public Relations, Barak Valley Zone, Silchar, Assam.