A complaint has been lodged with the Shivaji Nagar police station in New Delhi against Indian cricketer Hardik Pandya. The allegation pertains to purported disrespect towards the national flag during the post-match celebrations following India’s victory at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Advocate Wajid Khan Bidkar, who filed the complaint, asserts that Pandya offended the Tricolour during the team’s celebrations held at the Narendra Modi Stadium after the final match against New Zealand. Various videos surfaced on social media, showing Pandya with the national flag draped over his shoulder during the festivities.

The complaint highlights that during the celebrations, Pandya was seen dancing and later lying down on stage with the national flag still wrapped around him. Khan argues that these actions constitute an insult to the national flag, violating the provisions set forth in the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971. He remarked that the celebrations included Pandya dancing with his girlfriend and claimed it undermined the dignity of the flag, which needs to be respected as per Section 2 of the National Flag Act.

Clarification on Jurisdiction Issues

Khan mentioned facing initial resistance from the police regarding jurisdiction, given that the incident occurred in Ahmedabad. Despite this, he contended that a complaint could be initiated anywhere in relation to an insult to the national flag, as it signifies the entire nation. He communicated to the police that the national flag is a symbol representing all Indians, which warranted a formal complaint. The police accepted his application for the complaint and provided him with a copy.

Response from Police

An officer from the Shivaji Nagar police station confirmed the filing of the application but refrained from disclosing any details regarding subsequent actions or investigations. This legal action follows India’s emphatic victory over New Zealand, where they triumphed by 96 runs, successfully defending their T20 World Cup title.

The win is historic for the Indian national cricket team, marking several milestones. India became the first team to clinch the T20 World Cup on home soil and achieved back-to-back titles following their previous success in 2007. Furthermore, this victory symbolizes India’s status as the first nation to secure the T20 World Cup trophy three times, with earlier triumphs in 2007 and 2024.

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