Concerns raised over misuse of national flag

BY SUSHMA MAHARJAN,Kathmandu, Jan. 26: Nepal’s national flag, a symbol of sovereignty, unity and national pride, is constitutionally protected and governed by strict legal provisions. However, growing concerns over its misuse, particularly during election campaigns and public gatherings, have prompted renewed scrutiny from authorities and legal experts.

The Constitution of Nepal clearly defines the shape, colour and import of the national flag, while its use is further regulated by the Procedure on the Use of the National Flag and National Anthem, 2012. The procedure specifies where, when and by whom the flag may be displayed to ensure its dignified use.

According to the procedure, the national flag may be used by very important persons, including the President, Vice President, Prime Minister, Chief Justice, former holders of these offices, the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Chairperson of the National Assembly. Similarly, important persons such as the Deputy Prime Minister, provincial chiefs and ministers, as well as their offices, district courts, district administration offices, international airports and registered organisations, are 

permitted to display the flag.

The regulation also assigns the Chief District Officer the responsibility of monitoring the use of the national flag within their jurisdiction. If the flag is found to have been used in a manner contrary to its dignity, the officer may order corrective measures or prohibit its use.

Despite these provisions, concerns have mounted in recent years over the growing casual and symbolic use of the national flag during public events, rallies and political activities. Experts said the flag was increasingly being displayed at functions unrelated to state affairs, often without adherence to prescribed rules.

The issue has come into sharper focus during the ongoing election campaign for the House of Representatives scheduled for March 5. During campaign rallies and public meetings, several candidates have been seen displaying the national flag prominently, with some even wearing it while addressing gatherings.

Former Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balendra Shah, who has a massive influence among citizens, was also seen wearing the national flag during a public address, sparking debate on social media. While supporters defended the act as an expression of nationalism, others questioned whether such use complies with existing legal provisions.

Amid rising complaints, the Election Commission (EC) has taken note of the issue. On Sunday, it sent a formal letter to all political parties, drawing attention to alleged misuse of the national flag during election publicity and campaigning. The commission said it had received complaints from various sources, which were also reflected in media reports.

In the letter, the EC urged political parties and candidates to strictly adhere to the Procedure on the Use of the National Flag and National Anthem, 2012 and the Election Code of Conduct, 2025, while campaigning or engaging in public activities.

Senior Advocate Dr. Bhimarjun Acharya argued that misuse of national symbols could weaken their significance over time. Criticising recent practices, he stressed the need for greater public awareness and stricter enforcement of existing regulations to preserve the dignity of the national flag.

Meanwhile, Ganga Khadgi, who has been running Chand’s Flag House in Basantapur for over three decades, acknowledged a rise in the sale and use of the national flag as the public interest had increased in the flag.

“We receive bulk orders from schools, consultancies, and organisations. Sales rise significantly during national holidays,” Khadgi said. “I do not know whether it is misuse or not, people love their national flag and carry it wherever possible.”

Pointing out the uniqueness of Nepal’s double-pennant flag, she said many foreigners were unaware of Nepal, prompting Nepali citizens travelling abroad to carry the flag as a marker of national identity. According to her, flags measuring two to three feet, priced around Rs. 300, are most popular, while prices range from Rs. 50 to higher amounts depending on size and material. She also said that her shop had once produced a 50-foot flag, which was installed in Butwal Municipality.

Meanwhile, the Home Ministry issued a press statement Sunday evening urging political parties and candidates to abide by exiting legal provisions while using it and maintain the dignity of the national flag. It has also warned of action if the national flag is misused.