India’s Flag Code allows the Tiranga to be flown day and night at homes, but several rules govern its display, use on vehicles, clothing, disposal and handling.

With Independence Day approaching, the Tricolour will appear on homes, streets, schools and public buildings across India. But the rules surrounding the National Flag are often misunderstood. The Flag Code of India, 2002, along with the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, sets out how the flag should be displayed and handled. (mha.gov.in)

Here are 12 practical rules every citizen should know.

Night Flying Is Allowed

Yes, you can fly the Tiranga at night at your home. A 2022 amendment to the Flag Code specifically allows the National Flag displayed in the open or on the house of a member of the public to be flown day and night. (mha.gov.in)

This changed the earlier general practice under which the flag was normally displayed from sunrise to sunset.

Homes Can Display It

Members of the public, private organisations and educational institutions can hoist or display the National Flag on all days and occasions, provided they maintain its dignity and honour. (pib.gov.in)

The flag should have a distinct and prominent position rather than being treated as ordinary decoration.

Get the Ratio Right

The National Flag must be rectangular, with a length-to-height ratio of 3:2. The Flag Code does not prescribe one universal size for every display. (mha.gov.in)

The saffron band must remain at the top when the flag is displayed horizontally.

Never Fly It Upside Down

The Tiranga must not be displayed with the saffron band at the bottom.

When displayed vertically, the saffron band should be on the flag's right side, which means it appears on the left to a person facing the flag. (mha.gov.in)

Damaged Flags Are Out

A torn, damaged or dishevelled National Flag should not be displayed.

The rule applies whether the flag hangs outside a house, is used at an event or is displayed by an organisation. Respectful handling continues even after the flag can no longer be used. (mha.gov.in)

Cars Have Special Rules

An ordinary citizen cannot simply attach the National Flag to a car and treat it as a vehicle decoration.

The Flag Code restricts the privilege of flying the National Flag on motor cars to specified dignitaries, including the President, Vice-President, Prime Minister, Governors and certain other constitutional authorities. (pib.gov.in)

Do Not Drape Vehicles

The National Flag cannot be draped over the hood, top, sides or back of a vehicle, train or boat.

This distinction matters during celebrations when flags are sometimes used as vehicle covers. The Flag Code specifically prohibits such use. (mha.gov.in)

Clothing Has Clear Limits

The National Flag cannot be used as a portion of a costume, uniform or accessory worn below the waist.

The law also prohibits printing or embroidering the National Flag on items such as cushions, handkerchiefs, napkins, undergarments and certain dress materials. (mha.gov.in)

The broader principle is that the Tricolour should not become a disposable fashion or decorative item.

Keep It Off the Ground

The flag should not intentionally touch the ground or floor, nor should it trail in water.

It should also not be fastened or displayed in a way that could damage it. These requirements apply to everyday handling as well as ceremonial occasions. (mha.gov.in)

No Writing on the Flag

The National Flag should not carry lettering.

It also cannot be used to receive, wrap, deliver, hold or carry objects. The Flag Code makes a limited exception for placing flower petals inside the flag before it is unfurled during certain national-day celebrations. (mha.gov.in)

Do Not Use It as Decoration

The Tiranga cannot be used as a festoon, rosette, bunting or similar decorative item.

Nor should it be used as a covering for a building. The flag's position as a national symbol takes precedence over decorative use. (mha.gov.in)

Dispose of It Respectfully

A damaged or soiled flag should not simply be thrown into a bin or left on the street.

The Flag Code says it should be destroyed as a whole in private, preferably by burning or through another method consistent with the dignity of the National Flag. Paper flags used by the public should also be collected and disposed of privately rather than being discarded on the ground. (mha.gov.in)

Public Buildings Differ

The day-and-night provision for private homes should not be confused with the rules applicable to government buildings.

For public buildings, the official FAQ says the National Flag is flown from sunrise to sunset, irrespective of weather conditions, with specific procedures for hoisting and lowering. (pib.gov.in)

The Ministry of Home Affairs currently lists the Flag Code of India, 2002, as amended in 2021, along with related advisories and FAQs on its official website. (mha.gov.in)

For citizens, the simplest rule is also the most important: display the Tiranga proudly, but handle it with dignity. Knowing the current Tiranga rules helps ensure that Independence Day celebrations remain patriotic without unintentionally disrespecting the national symbol.