SAY ‘NO’ TO PLASTIC FLAGS
Come any national festival like Republic Day or Independence Day, every year, Indians flock to the markets to purchase national flags and badges to declare their love for the country. But, alas, the very next day, these tricolours are seen strewn and scattered all around the streets! The sight is painful because it not only hurts our patriotism but as per The Prevention of Insults to the National Honour Act 1971′, and ‘Flag Code of India, 2002’ it is a crime and violation of the law which invites three years rigorous punishment.
Secondly, the trend of plastic flags has made the scene more horrible since plastic flags are not biodegradable like paper or cotton flags. These do not get decomposed for a long time. Flags are not disposable hence they are difficult to recycle. And, last but the least, the disposal of plastic flags compromises the dignity of the National Flag. Hence, to put a stop on the sale of plastic flags the government has made some stringent laws which could land you in a legal hassle and even put in jail!!!
In an advisory to the central and state governments, the Home Ministry has passed orders to every state to observe the dignity of the ‘Flag Code of India’ strictly. The states governments have been asked to take tough action and ensure that nobody dishonours or insults the National Flag or other symbols of national honour. People have been requested to make sure they only use flags made of paper and flags are not discarded or thrown on the ground after the Independence Day celebration.
In addition, whoever in any public place or any other place within public view burns, mutilates, defaces, defiles, disfigures, destroys, tramples upon or otherwise shows disrespect to or brings into contempt the Indian national flag or any part thereof, shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years or with fine, or with both.
True there is universal affection, respect, and loyalty to the national flag, but due to lack of awareness, it is often noticed people dump national flags on roads and other odd places.
Home Times urges Mulundkars to avoid using plastic flags on this Independence Day and also stop your friends, neighbours and relatives from using plastic flags! Come, lets’ pledge to use only paper Tricolour and observe its dignity.
