A viral video shot in Bilaspur, near Greater Noida, shows a dead pet dog wrapped in the National Flag before being buried. The clip, which surfaced on Thursday, has drawn sharp reactions from local residents who allege a violation of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act. They, along with social media users, have pointed out that honouring the National Flag is a fundamental duty of every citizen. Several are urging the authorities to penalise those responsible for misusing it. Some outraged locals have also demanded a swift administrative and police investigation.
The Flag Code
The National Flag cannot be used as a drapery or covering in any form, including for private or civilian funerals.
Draping the Tricolour over a casket or body is strictly reserved for official State funerals or funerals of Armed forces and central paramilitary personnel.
The Flag must never be allowed to touch the ground, floor, or dirt, nor can it be used to wrap, receive, hold, or carry any objects or animals.
Under Section 2 of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, using the National Flag as a drapery in unauthorised contexts amounts to showing disrespect to the Tricolour, which is a punishable offence with imprisonment for up to 3 years, a fine, or both.