Pune-Based Activist Flags Alleged Misuse of National Flag at Nightclubs, Seeks Strict Enforcement of Flag Code
Pune-Based Activist Flags Alleged Misuse of National Flag at Nightclubs, Seeks Strict Enforcement of Flag Code
New Delhi, February 6, 2026: Pune-based entrepreneur, activist and political analyst Prafful P. Sarda has raised serious concerns over the alleged disrespect and misuse of the National Flag at nightclubs, pubs, lounges and sports bars across the country, urging immediate and stringent enforcement of the Flag Code of India, 2002.
In a representation addressed to the President of India, Sarda stated that the Tricolour, regarded as a sacred national symbol, is being improperly used during parties, club events and celebrations, particularly at night-time entertainment venues. He said such practices amount to violations of the Flag Code and reduce the National Flag to a commercial prop for entertainment and marketing.
Drawing attention to content circulating online, Sarda pointed out that several videos and photographs on social media allegedly show instances of the Tricolour being mishandled or displayed in ways that do not comply with prescribed norms. He described the situation as deeply concerning, noting that such violations appear to be taking place openly and repeatedly, indicating serious lapses in monitoring and enforcement.
Highlighting the gravity of the issue, Sarda warned that unchecked misuse of national symbols sends a dangerous signal that patriotism can be trivialised for profit. He called upon the government to take visible and deterrent action to safeguard the dignity of the National Flag.
Among the measures suggested were the issuance of strict written guidelines or circulars to clubs, pubs, bars, hotels and other commercial establishments, making compliance with the Flag Code mandatory. He also recommended special inspection drives and surprise checks during club events, sports screenings, national occasions and private parties held at such venues.
Sarda further sought strict penal action against violators, including heavy fines and suspension or cancellation of licences. He also demanded that accountability be fixed on local police and licensing authorities for failure to prevent such violations. According to him, wide publicity of enforcement actions is essential to ensure deterrence and increase public awareness.
“Patriotism cannot be reduced to a party theme or marketing gimmick,” Sarda said, emphasising that respect for the National Flag is non-negotiable and enforcement authorities must act firmly, impartially and in an exemplary manner to protect the dignity of the Tricolour.
President Droupadi Murmu’s Office Responds On Letter
President Droupadi Murmu has taken swift cognizance of a petition highlighting serious disrespect to the Indian National Flag (Tiranga) at pubs and hotels, where violations of the Flag Code of India, 2002, are allegedly taking place under the guise of celebrating Republic Day and Independence Day.
The complaint was submitted by Pune-based businessman and activist Prafful Sarda on January 26, 2026. He was surprised to receive a response from the President’s office within less than 72 hours of sending the representation.
In a reply issued by Under Secretary Lakshmi Maharabooshanam from the President’s Secretariat at Rashtrapati Bhavan, Sarda was informed that his complaint had been forwarded to the Ministry of Home Affairs for necessary action. The communication also stated that the action taken in the matter would be conveyed directly to him.
Reacting to the prompt response, Sarda said it was a pleasant surprise that the President had taken serious note of the issue of disrespect to the National Flag at nightclubs, pubs, lounges, sports bars, and similar establishments across the country. He added that such blatant mishandling of the Tricolour amounts to a clear violation of the provisions laid down in the Flag Code of India.
