Shillong, August 14: Ahead of Independence Day, the Meghalaya government has reminded the public, government departments and agencies to strictly comply with the Flag Code of India, 2002, as amended in 2021 and 2022, and the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971.
In an advisory issued on Friday, the government said the National Flag represents the hopes and aspirations of the people and should be accorded a position of honour. It also expressed concern over a lack of awareness about the laws, practices and conventions governing the use, hoisting and display of the Tricolour.
Strict compliance of the provisions of #FlagCode of #India, 2002 [as amended in 2021 & 2022] and the Prevention of Insults to #National Honour Act, 1971 @DiprMeghalaya @PIBHomeAffairs (https://t.co/WodPLBEgvW) pic.twitter.com/7fS143aJed
— Meghalaya Gov (@MeghalayaGov) August 14, 2026
The advisory specifically reminds the public that paper flags used during national, cultural and sporting events should not be discarded or thrown on the ground and must be disposed of privately in a manner consistent with the dignity of the National Flag.
*Here are some key points to remember while hoisting and displaying the National Flag:*
1. Treat the flag with dignity: The National Flag must always be displayed in a manner consistent with its dignity and honour.
2. Correct orientation: When displayed horizontally, the saffron band must be at the top, white in the middle and green at the bottom. The Ashoka Chakra should be clearly visible.
3. Do not let it touch the ground: The flag should not intentionally touch the ground or floor or trail in water.
4. Do not display it upside down: The flag should never intentionally be displayed with the saffron band at the bottom.
5. No lettering or writing: Nothing should be written or inscribed on the National Flag.
6. Do not use it as decoration or drapery: The Tricolour should not be used as a tablecloth, covering for a building, speaker’s desk or platform, or as drapery.
7. Do not use it as clothing: The National Flag should not be used as part of a costume or uniform or printed/embroidered on items such as cushions, handkerchiefs or napkins.
8. Do not dip the flag: The National Flag should not be dipped in salute to any person or thing.
9. No other flag above it: When displayed with other flags, the National Flag should occupy the position of honour and no other flag should be placed above it.
10. Flying at night: Under the 2022 amendment, when the flag is displayed in the open or at the house of a member of the public, it may be flown day and night.
11. Paper flags: Paper National Flags may be waved by the public during important national, cultural and sports events. However, they must not be discarded or thrown on the ground after the event. They should be disposed of privately and in a manner consistent with the dignity of the flag.
The Meghalaya government said copies of the Flag Code of India, 2002, and the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, are available on the Ministry of Home Affairs website. https://x.com/MeghalayaGov/status/2088208837421809776
