Tricolour's journey to citizens' hands & hearts, a democracy story, Pg13

Key Highlights:

• On July 22, 1947, India adopted the tricolour as its national flag.
• January 23 marked the 22nd anniversary of the Supreme Court's judgment in Union of India vs Naveen Jindal, recognizing citizens' right to fly the flag.
• The Delhi High Court previously upheld citizens' right to hoist the flag throughout the year, 30 years ago.
• 20 years ago, an amendment to the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971 allowed respectful display of the flag on apparel.
• In 1993, Naveen Jindal challenged restrictions on flag hoisting, leading to a landmark legal battle.

Detailed Insights:

• Post-independence, the flag was initially viewed as a state symbol with restricted access, not directly linked to citizens' rights.
• Naveen Jindal's challenge to the Flag Code aimed to make the flag more accessible, fostering emotional ownership and democratic participation.
• Jindal's inspiration stemmed from his experiences in the U.S., where he proudly displayed the Indian flag, contrasting with Indian restrictions.
• The Supreme Court's judgment affirmed that flying the flag with respect and dignity is a fundamental right under freedom of speech and expression.
• The Flag Foundation of India, established by Naveen and Shallu Jindal, promotes the flag's significance nationwide, strengthening emotional connections.
• Flying the flag is considered a civic responsibility, symbolizing constitutional duties, obligations, and the spirit of nation-building.
• The flag's evolution, from the vajra flag to the present tricolour, reflects India's democratic ideals and shared constitutional inheritance.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Fundamental Right: A basic right guaranteed by the Constitution, essential for human dignity and liberty.
• Flag Code of India: A set of laws, conventions, and instructions that govern the display of the national flag.
• Freedom of Speech and Expression: The right to express one's opinions freely without government interference, a fundamental democratic principle.