Saran: Two detained for carrying Tricolour flag with crescent moon-stars instead of Ashoka chakra in Bihar

Authorities in Bihar’s Saran district detained two individuals on Monday for allegedly carrying a modified version of India's national flag during a religious procession. According to the police, the flag displayed a crescent moon and star in place of the Ashoka Chakra, an act that could be considered a violation of the Flag Code of India.

Disrespect of Tiranga.

Muslims tampered the Tiranga by replacing the Ashok Chakra with moon and star in Chhapra, Bihar.

It's always the same Qaum! pic.twitter.com/X0yXuQr6Mt

— BALA (@erbmjha) September 16, 2024

Flag seized, detentions made

The police immediately confiscated the altered flag and detained the two individuals linked to the incident. A statement from the Saran police noted, "A video went viral on social media showing a tricolour with a crescent moon and star symbol at its centre, instead of the Ashoka Chakra, displayed on a vehicle during the Milad-un-Nabi procession."

आज कोपा थाना अंतर्गत मिलाद- उल- नबी के जुलूस में तथाकथित बदले स्वरूप में तिरंगा झंडा में अशोक चक्र की जगह चाँद तारा लगाकर फहराने वाले मामले में पुलिस टीम द्वारा त्वरित कार्रवाई करते हुए पिक अप वाहन समेत कथित झंडे को जब्त कर लिया गया है(1/1) pic.twitter.com/jX78m4xq0o

— SARAN POLICE (@SaranPolice) September 16, 2024

The incident reportedly took place in the Kopa bazar area, where the police launched an investigation to identify others involved. Officials confirmed that further arrests would follow as they continue to probe the violation of national symbols.

Violation of the flag code of India

The Flag Code of India governs the proper use and display of the national flag, and any alterations to its design are considered illegal. By replacing the Ashoka Chakra with religious symbols, the individuals violated these regulations, prompting swift police action.
"The flag was immediately seized," the police statement added. "All other accused will soon be arrested."

Warning against circulation on social media

The police have also issued a stern warning to the public, advising against sharing the video of the altered flag on social media. "If anyone is found sharing such content, strict action will be taken against them," the statement read, emphasizing the seriousness of the matter.

Authorities acted swiftly by not only seizing the flag but also impounding the pick-up vehicle used in the procession. As the investigation progresses, the police have promised stringent measures against those responsible for the breach of the Flag Code.