Context:
India’s National Flag Day commemorates the adoption of the Indian national flag on 22nd July 1947, by the Constituent Assembly, a few days before the country attained Independence from the British on 15th August 1947.
Relevance:
GS II: Polity and Governance
Dimensions of the Article:
- National Flag Day
- Major Laws Governing the National Flag
National Flag Day
Historical Context
- Adoption Date: The Indian National Flag was adopted on 22nd July 1947 by the Constituent Assembly of India, chaired by Dr. Rajendra Prasad.
- Symbolism: The flag symbolizes national pride, unity, and the struggle for freedom, serving as a tribute to the sacrifices of freedom fighters.
Resolution and Design
- Resolution Moved by: Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru.
- Flag Description:
- Colors: Horizontal tricolor of deep saffron (Kesari), white, and dark green in equal proportion.
- Central Emblem: A navy blue Ashoka Chakra (wheel) in the center of the white band, representing the Charkha. The design of the Wheel is based on the abacus of the Sarnath Lion Capital of Asoka.
- Dimensions: The diameter of the Wheel is approximately the width of the white band, and the ratio of the width to length of the flag is 2:3.
- Significance: The adoption marked the end of British rule and affirmed India’s commitment to freedom and future prosperity.
Major Laws Governing the National Flag
1. Flag Code of India, 2002
- General Provisions:
- Position of Honour: The National Flag should occupy the position of honor and be distinctly placed.
- Condition of the Flag: A damaged or disheveled flag must not be displayed and should be disposed of privately by either burying or burning, maintaining dignity.
- Flying Restrictions:
- The Flag should not be flown from a masthead simultaneously with other flags.
- It should not be flown on vehicles except those of dignitaries like the President, Vice-President, Prime Minister, and Governors.
- No other flag or bunting should be placed higher than or side by side with the National Flag.
- Display Permissions: The National Flag can be hoisted/displayed by the public, private organizations, or educational institutions on all days and occasions, consistent with its dignity and honor.
- Recent Amendments:
- 2021: Allowed polyester or machine-made flags.
- 2022: Permitted the flag to be flown both day and night.
2. Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971
- Offenses:
- Disrespect or contempt towards the National Flag or Constitution through actions like burning, mutilating, defacing, destroying, or any other act, including spoken or written words.
- Penalties:
- Punishment with up to three years of imprisonment, a fine, or both.
Additional Information
- Flag Specifications: The National Flag shall be rectangular, and the ratio of length to height (width) shall be 3:2. The size of the flag can vary but must adhere to this ratio.
-Source: Indian Express
