Explained: Rules and Authorized Dignitaries Allowed to Display Indian Flag on Vehicles

Only certain constitutional dignitaries are permitted to hoist the Indian National Flag on their vehicles, as outlined in the Flag Code of India, 2002. The individuals authorized to display the flag include:

• President of India

• Vice President of India

• Governors and Lieutenant Governors of States and Union Territories

• Prime Minister of India

• Cabinet Ministers and Ministers of State at the Center

• Chief Ministers and Cabinet Ministers of States and Union Territories

• Speaker of the Lok Sabha

• Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha

• Vice Chairman of the Rajya Sabha

• Speakers of Legislative Assemblies and Councils

• Chief Justice of India

• Judges of the Supreme Court

• Chief Justices and Judges of High Courts

• Speakers of Indian Missions/Posts abroad.

It is against the law for anybody other than these dignitaries to display the national flag on their car; flag displays on vehicles are highly restricted. The Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, imposes fines and imprisonment for disrespecting the flag, among other legal consequences for breaking these rules.

Rules for Displaying the National Flag on Vehicles

The display of the Indian National Flag on vehicles is governed by specific rules outlined in the Flag Code of India, 2002. Here are the key regulations:

1. Authorized Individuals: The flag may only be flown on vehicles belonging to certain dignitaries, including:
• President of India
• Vice President of India
• Prime Minister of India
• Governors of States and Union Territories
• Other specified dignitaries as per the Flag Code.
2. Position of the Flag: When displayed on a vehicle, the flag must be flown from a staff affixed to the vehicle, ensuring it is distinctly visible.
3. Prohibition on Other Uses: The National Flag cannot cover any vehicle's sides, back, or top. As mentioned earlier, it should not be displayed on any vehicle that does not belong to the dignitaries.
4. Condition of the Flag: The flag must be in good condition; damaged or dishevelled flags should not be displayed.
5. No Other Flags: No other flag or bunting should be placed higher than or beside the National Flag when it is displayed on a vehicle.

These rules are part of the broader regulations under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, of 1971, which emphasizes the respect and dignity associated with the National Flag.

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