Cachar District Administration Issues Guidelines for Respectful Hoisting of the National Flag on Independence Day

With the 79th Independence Day just days away, the Cachar District Administration has issued a heartfelt appeal to every citizen to uphold the dignity, sanctity, and symbolism of the Indian National Flag while participating in this year’s celebrations. The administration has underscored the importance of hoisting the Tricolour with utmost respect, strictly in accordance with the Flag Code of India and the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971.

Independence Day is a time when the flag is not merely raised but ceremonially “hoisted”, drawn briskly from the bottom to the top of the flagpole, signifying the rise of a free nation. The saffron band must always be positioned uppermost, whether the flag is displayed horizontally or vertically, with the latter requiring saffron on the left side from the viewer’s perspective. The flag must occupy a place of prominence, never overshadowed by any other emblem or object. It should always be clean, undamaged, and proportioned according to the prescribed ratio of 3:2 between its length and width.

The administration has reminded the public that following the 2022 amendment to the Flag Code, the Tricolour may now be flown at night, but only if it is properly illuminated and displayed in a dignified manner. Citizens are encouraged to ensure that their flags, whether made of hand-spun, hand-woven, or machine-made cotton, polyester, wool, or silk khadi bunting, are free from stains, tears, or fading.

Equally important are the prohibitions designed to preserve the flag’s honour. The District Administration has made it clear that the Tricolour must never be allowed to touch the ground, floor, or water, nor should it be draped over vehicles, buildings, or platforms, except for specific ceremonial purposes such as state or military funerals. It must never be flown upside down, dipped in salute to any person or thing, or used as a commercial or decorative item on clothing, cushions, or other materials. Writing, printing, or defacing the flag in any way is strictly forbidden. While wearing the flag respectfully as a lapel pin or emblem is permitted, using its image or design on garments worn below the waist is prohibited.

The administration has further stressed that when a flag becomes damaged or soiled, it must be retired in a private and dignified manner, preferably by burning. Careless storage that could damage or soil the flag is also to be avoided. Any intentional disrespect, mutilation, or desecration of the Tricolour constitutes a punishable offence under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, carrying penalties of imprisonment, a fine, or both.
As Cachar readies itself for vibrant celebrations with flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural programmes, and tributes to the freedom fighters, the District Administration has called upon every resident to see the hoisting of the Tricolour as not just a symbolic act, but as a solemn pledge to the unity, integrity, and glory of the Republic of India. By observing these protocols with sincerity, citizens will ensure that every flutter of the flag on August 15 stands as a proud testament to the nation’s enduring spirit of freedom.

This is stated in a press release issued from the Regional office of Information & Public Relations, Barak Valley Zone, Silchar, Assam.