Those who misuse the national flag for narrow personal or party interests lack the moral strength to advocate for the interests of the country.
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The flag is the highest means of representing the identity of a country and its citizens. The flag can speak the history of the country concerned.
It can speak to the citizen's philosophy and aspirations. The colors, symbols, and shapes used in it all have a specific meaning. The flag is used by citizens as the highest means of expressing their love, pride, feelings, and belonging to the country. That is why the flag is considered a symbol of national unity. Because, even if they are divided in individual and collective thoughts, beliefs, aspirations, and objectives, citizens are united when it comes to the flag. Citizens holding the flag are considered to carry a sense of national interest. They are also expected to play the role of good citizens. However, the misuse of the flag, which is considered a symbol of unity, has started increasing. The misuse of the flag that is done with narrow interests should be discouraged.
The procedure in the 'Procedures for the Use of the National Flag and the National Anthem, 2069' mentions the procedure for the use of the flag by the President to ordinary citizens. Similarly, it is prohibited to do or cause any act that insults the national flag. It is not possible to write all the procedures regarding the use of the flag. Because citizens themselves should use it respectfully, motivated by national feelings. Every citizen who loves the country should be careful, for what purpose is he using the flag? Can all citizens be equally proud of the place where he uses the flag? If this is not the case, then it should be understood that the flag is being misused. Those who misuse the national flag for narrow interests such as personal or party interests do not have the moral strength to advocate for the interests of the country.
Article 8 of the Constitution of Nepal provides for the national flag. It is stated that ‘The flag consisting of two triangles with a light blue background and a dark blue border, slightly connected, with a crescent moon in the upper part and a white shape with eight angles visible in sixteen, and a white shape of a twelve-angled sun in the lower part, is the national flag of Nepal.’ Schedule-1 of the Constitution itself explains the method of making the flag. Similarly, a procedure for its use has also been prepared to make the use of the flag systematic and dignified. The Ministry of Home Affairs is also informing about its use through information. The rationale for all these provisions is the same, the shape of the flag should be ensured by a certain definition. It should not be misused, but rather used with respect. And, as expected, let it become a symbol of national unity. Let it become a common identity of pride. Let citizens think about national interests while standing in front of the flag.
The debate on the use of the flag is necessary at this time because it is being used everywhere. Even those involved in riots and violent and punishable activities prohibited by law are wearing the flag. It is seen that the national flag is being used in protests, propaganda and activities of political parties. Not only the Gen-G movement of 23 Bhadau, but also during the looting and arson of 24 Bhadau, people wearing the national flag created havoc. Even those who vandalized, set fire to and destroyed the Parliament Building, Supreme Court, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Singha Durbar, media houses, industrial establishments and private properties were wearing the national flag. Some were celebrating such activities as a festival and hoisting the national flag. These incidents make it clear how the national flag is being misused. Even during elections, the national flag is being used to promote the interests of a particular party.
Political programs and activities that are punishable by law divide society. Indeed, Section 151 of the Criminal Code, 2074 BS, states that action will be taken against those who insult the national flag. The government should pay attention to compliance with the law. It should be stopped. Perhaps that is why the Ministry of Home Affairs issued a notice on Sunday. The legal system is automatically attracted to matters related to the pride of the country, but for this, discretion is also indispensable at the citizen level.
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