Know Your National Flag
Independent India’s National-flag, the Tiranga, came into existence on July 22, 1947. Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru described it as ‘a flag of freedom’ while moving the resolution on the flag in the Constituent Assembly. And, for the first time in the long history of the nation, Indians could look up with pride and honour at their country’s flag. However, to their utter dismay, ordinary citizens soon realized that they did not have the right to fly the Tiranga on all days of the year. The display of the National-flag was the exclusive privilege of certain senior government dignitaries as mentioned in the Flag Code of India. The Tiranga was perceived as a flag of government authority and not as the ordinary citizen’s tribute to nationhood.
It is heartening to note that from January 26, 2002, after fifty-five years of independence, Indian citizens were permitted to fly their National-flag throughout the year. This was the result of a long and protracted legal battle by Sh. Naveen Jindal, Hon’ble Member of Parliament.
On January 23, 2004 in a historic judgment, the Honourable Supreme Court held that the right to fly the National-flag freely, with respect and dignity, was a Fundamental Right.
The Tiranga has always been a great source of inspiration for all of us throughout our contemporary history. It reminds us of our duties towards our country. When a company flies the national flag at its office or factory premises, it becomes a source of genuine inspiration for the workers and the staff, who feel that they are working not just for the company or factory, but for the country as well. It is a symbolic way of placing national interest ahead of everything. When we hoist our National-flag, we rise above our religion, regional and political affiliations and show our love for the nation. We feel a sense of pride as the flag unfurls in front of our eyes to reveal its vibrant colours. Display of the Tiranga, our National-flag, is a way of expressing our love for, and faith in, our nation.
Click Here
