Editor,
I would like to draw the attention of the citizens to a matter of deep concern regarding the treatment of our national flag after Independence Day celebrations.
Every year, on 15 August, the tricolour is seen fluttering proudly across the nation – at schools, offices, shops, vehicles, and even pinned to clothes. It fills every Indian with pride, reminding us of the sacrifices of our great freedom fighters who gave their lives to uphold the honour of the flag and gifted us independence in 1947.
However, the day after Independence Day tells a different story. The same flags that were held high with pride are found lying on the roads, in garbage bins, or trampled underfoot. Where does that patriotism go the next day? Is our remembrance of freedom fighters only for one day? Do we honour our martyrs just by waving the flag for a few hours and then throwing it into the dustbin? Is this the respect our national symbol deserves? Do we call ourselves true Indians if we cannot even respect our own flag? What kind of patriotism is this- one that lasts for a few hours and dies the very next morning? Have we forgotten that countless men and women sacrificed their lives, so that this flag could rise, not fall?
The widespread use of paper and plastic flags has only worsened this situation. Despite clear instructions from the government, urging citizens not to use plastic flags, and to ensure proper disposal in accordance with the Flag Code of India, the practice continues unchecked.
This disrespect towards our national symbol is heartbreaking. The tricolour is not just a piece of cloth – it embodies courage, sacrifice, and the spirit of freedom. To discard it like waste is to dishonour the countless patriots who laid down their lives for our motherland.
It is the duty of every Indian to respect the dignity of the national flag at all times. Parents, teachers, and elders must instil in children the value of treating the flag with honour, not just on Independence or Republic Day, but every day. Citizens must ensure that after the celebrations, paper flags are disposed of respectfully, and plastic flags are avoided altogether.
Let us not reduce patriotism to a one-day event. True respect for our nation lies in protecting the honour of its symbols, especially the tricolour. May we always remember the sacrifices behind it and ensure that it continues to sway proudly, inspiring generations to come.
Licha Tama