After the celebration of Independence Day, do not insult the tricolor even unknowingly; know the rules of folding it

After Independence Day, it is the duty of every Indian to take down, fold, and keep the tricolor properly. According to the National Flag Code, the flag should not touch the ground, fold it properly, and be it in a safe place.

Today, the whole country is celebrating the festival of independence. Today the tricolor is fluttering in every street, locality, government private institution and on the roofs of houses. For the last few years, due to the Har Ghar Tiranga Abhiyan, this sight has become even more common. But after the celebration of Independence Day is over, many people unknowingly behave with the national flag in a way that is against its respect. In such a situation, the government and the Ministry of Culture have clarified that our responsibility is not only limited to hoisting the tricolor but it is equally important to take it down, fold and keep it safe in the right manner. For this, clear rules have been given in the National Flag Code.

Take these precautions while taking down the tricolour

1. Always take down the flag slowly and with full respect

2. Never let the flag touch the ground or water

3. After taking it down, fold it properly instead of leaving it dirty or crumpled

Correct way of folding the tricolour

1. To fold the tricolour, first keep the flag horizontal

2. After this, fold the saffron and green strips backwards in such a way that the white strip and the Ashoka Chakra in the middle are visible on top.

3. After this, fold both the edges of the white strip near the Ashoka Chakra in such a way that only the Chakra is visible from above.

4. Now keep the folded flag respectfully in a safe place.

What not to do

- Keep in mind that you should not put any photo, writing or painting on the tricolor

- Apart from this, hoisting a dirty or faded flag is considered against the rules

- Do not use the flag for clothes, curtains, tablecloths or decoration

- Keep in mind that the national flag should not be below or equal to any other flag

Punishment for breaking the rules

If a person intentionally insults the tricolor, tears it or burns it in public, then it is a crime under the Prevention of Insult to National Honor Act 1971. For this, there can be a punishment of up to 3 years, fine or both.

Respect for the tricolour is respect for the country

The Ministry of Culture has appealed to the people to respect the flag not only on 15th August and 26th January but also every time after hoisting and lowering it. The tricolour is the pride of our country and hence it is the duty of every Indian to maintain its respect.