Complaint Filed Against Hardik Pandya
“I believe it is an insult to the national flag,” stated advocate Wajid Khan Bidkar, who has filed a complaint against Indian cricketer Hardik Pandya. The complaint alleges that Pandya disrespected the national flag during celebrations following India’s victory in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
The incident reportedly occurred after India secured a win against New Zealand by 96 runs at the Narendra Modi Stadium, marking India’s third T20 World Cup title. Videos circulating on social media show Pandya dancing and lying down with the national flag wrapped around him, which has sparked outrage among some members of the public.
Bidkar emphasized the importance of respecting the national flag, referencing Section 2 of the 1971 National Flag Act, which mandates that the dignity of the flag must be upheld. “The national flag is a symbol of the entire nation, and we can file a complaint here,” he added, highlighting the significance of the flag to the country’s identity.
The complaint was officially submitted at the Shivaji Nagar police station in Ahmedabad. While the police confirmed receipt of the application, they did not disclose any further details regarding potential actions that may be taken against Pandya.
In his remarks, Bidkar insisted that Pandya’s actions violate the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, which aims to protect the dignity of national symbols. “Let’s see what happens next. I have filed the complaint,” he concluded, indicating that he is awaiting a response from law enforcement.
India’s recent triumph in the T20 World Cup is historic, as it is the first team to win the title on home soil and the first to secure consecutive titles, having previously won in 2007 and 2024. The celebrations that followed were jubilant, but they have now been overshadowed by this controversy.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how the authorities will respond to the complaint and whether any legal action will be pursued against Pandya. Details remain unconfirmed.
