National Flag hung upside down at Tripura Panchayat sparks outrage

A BJP-run Panchayat in North Tripura has come under fire after the national flag was found hanging upside down for several days at its office premises, triggering widespread anger and debate over respect for national symbols. 

The incident occurred at Ichai Lalchhara Gram Panchayat under Kalachhara Block in North District, where locals allege the Tricolour remained inverted for two to three days without correction.

The controversy has struck a raw nerve as the country prepares for the 80th Independence Day celebrations under the Centre’s Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, which seeks to instill pride and patriotism by encouraging citizens to hoist the flag at every home. Instead, residents say the Panchayat’s negligence has resulted in “gross insult” to the national flag.

Villagers reported that despite the daily presence of the Panchayat Pradhan, secretary, and staff, no one took responsibility to fix the flag. The sight of the inverted Tricolour quickly became the subject of public criticism, with passersby and visitors expressing shock. “Safeguarding the dignity of the national flag is the duty of every citizen and institution. This is not mere carelessness but a question of accountability,” one resident remarked.

The issue has spilled into political circles, with opposition voices questioning the ruling BJP’s nationalist credentials when such disrespect occurs under its administration. The Panchayat authorities have yet to issue a formal response.

Local residents are demanding immediate rectification, identification of those responsible, and strict administrative action. They insist that the administration must treat the matter with seriousness to uphold the sanctity of the Tricolour.