Flying high the tricolour

While citizens are now permitted to fly the national flag at home, in offices and even inside their vehicles, most people are still ignorant about the correct way of using a tricolour, say experts.
Also, ahead of the 68th Independence Day, people have been posting profiles of the national flag as their profile picture sparking a discussion on whether or not it amounts to disrespect or violation of laws.
According to 'The Flag Code of India' whenever the tricolour is displayed in open, it should, as far as possible, be flown from sunrise to sunset.
An exception to this is the monumental flag at the Central Park at Connaught Place here, which is flown even after sun goes down. However, say experts, this is not counted as a breach of the Flag Code since the 207 ft-high flagpole is well illuminated even at night.

"The flag at Rajiv Chowk is maintained by Flag Foundation. Around Rs 60,000 per month is spent on its maintenance. There are guards, CCTV cameras and eight lights that keep the flag well lit even at night. The flag is also replaced if torn or dirty," says Commander K V Singh, CEO, Flag Foundation.
A senior Supreme Court lawyer says, "The Indian flag should be held high in honour as it is a symbol of national pride. A damaged or disheveled flag should not be displayed."

The lawyer said failure to follow the flag code, "will lead to imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years or with fine or with both."

It is a common sight, especially in the days preceding Independence Day to see children celebrating with paper flags. Some paint their own tricolour while others buy it from street hawkers.
The Flag Code of India has also put out rules on disposal off the flags as well as the materials that should not be used like plastic.
"It says paper flags should not be discarded or thrown on the ground. As far as possible, it should be disposed off in private consistent with the dignity of the flag. The flag symbolises our nation; destroying a flag is like destroying your country. Hence, one must be careful and respect dignity of the Indian flag," says a senior Supreme Court lawyer.

Citizens can also sport miniatures of the national flags inside their car on the dashboard or on the wind screen throughout the year, after a Supreme Court order on January 23, 2004, which made flying of the national flag a fundamental right.
However, display of the flag on the bonnet of a motor car can only be done by certain officials of the state and central governments as well as by Chief Justices.