Do this with the Indian flag after Independence Day celebrations
Every year, several households and communities in India hoist the national flag on Independence Day with much fervor and enthusiasm. However, it is equally important to know what to do with the flag once the celebration is over. The Flag Code of India 2002 shares some note-worthy guidelines on how one can take care of the tricolor flag. Read ahead.
Folding the national flag
The national flag has to be folded and stored respectfully. There's a proper way to do it as prescribed by the Flag Code of India 2002. Place the flag horizontally and fold the saffron and green bands under the white band. Then, fold the white band in such a way that only the Ashoka Chakra is visible with parts of saffron and green bands.
Here's how to fold it
What to do with damaged flags?
It is disrespectful to show or hoist a damaged or disheveled national flag. If your flag is damaged or soiled, the Flag Code of India 2002 says, "It shall be destroyed as a whole in private, preferably by burning or any other method considering the dignity of the National Flag." You can also bury the flag, but it shouldn't resurface on soil removal.
What to do with damaged paper tricolor flags?
People widely use paper-based national flags to commemorate the celebrations of Independence Day. If these flags get damaged, do not discard them on the ground or throw them in the trash. Instead, you can burn or bury them wholly in private. Light a fire and keep the folded flag in the fire and let it burn wholly, not partially. The flag should be saluted.
Burning and burying etiquettes
If you are burying a damaged flag, keep it inside a wooden box and bury it. Observe a moment of silence, thereafter. If you are burning it, choose a clean private space to do so. Make sure you have folded the flag properly and it is positioned in the center of the flames. It is a legal offense to directly burn the flag.
Indian flag etiquettes
The national flag should never touch the ground and should always be positioned correctly - saffron on the top, white in the middle, and green at the bottom. It can be half-mast during the deaths of important government dignitaries and soldiers. Writing on the tricolor flag is prohibited. Unlike many countries, the National flag cannot be used as a drapery in any form.
