Don't use national flag made of plastic, HP govt tells public

Ahead of the Republic Day, the Himachal Pradesh government has urged people not to use national flag made of plastic and asked them to strictly comply with the flag code.

A state government spokesperson said here on Friday it has been noticed that on the occasion of important national, cultural and sports events, the national flags made of plastic are being used in place of paper flags.

He said the appeal has been made to the public to avoid use of plastic flags and to use paper flags in accordance with the provisions of the 'Flag Code of India, 2002' and asked them to ensure that the flags are not discarded or thrown on the ground after the event.

Such flags are to be disposed off, in private, consistent with the dignity of the flag, the spokesperson said.

He said plastic flags are non-biodegradable so they do not get decomposed for a long time and do not ensure appropriate disposal.

He said the national flag represents the hopes and aspirations of the people of the country and hence should occupy a position of honour.

There is universal affection and respect for, and loyalty to, the national flag, the spokesperson said. He said a perceptible lack of awareness is often noticed among people as well as organisations and agencies of the government, regarding laws, practices and conventions that apply to display of the national flag.

He urged the people to strictly comply with the provisions of the flag code and 'The Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971'.