New Delhi: Delhi Police issued an appeal to respect the national flag on October 16, sharing a 12-point Tricolour awareness advisory amid CJP’s “Lehra Do Tiranga” protest and the debate over restrictions on gatherings in Connaught Place.
The police message urged citizens to reflect patriotism in their conduct and uphold the dignity of the flag. Its accompanying graphics set out precautions on displaying, carrying and using the Tricolour. The post did not name CJP or accuse a particular participant of disrespecting the flag.
Our Tricolour deserves the highest respect. Let patriotism reflect in every gesture. 🇮🇳
Delhi Police — October 16, 2026
Respect the Flag. Uphold the Pride.
@LtGovDelhi #DPUpdates
Delhi Police / X
Our Tricolour deserves the highest respect. Let patriotism reflect in every gesture. 🇮🇳
Respect the Flag. Uphold the Pride.
@LtGovDelhi #DPUpdates
What the Delhi Police advisory says
The first graphic calls on people to display the flag correctly and honour it with pride, referring to the Flag Code of India, 2002. The following panels list 12 points, covering the flag’s position, orientation and uses that the advisory says should be avoided.
- Give the national flag a distinct position of honour whenever it is displayed.
- Fly it at half-mast only on occasions permitted by government instructions.
- Never display it with the saffron band facing down.
- Do not use it as drapery, including at private funerals.
- The graphic cautions against using it as part of a costume or uniform, or embroidering or printing it on cushions, handkerchiefs, napkins or dress material.
- Do not place lettering on the national flag.
- Do not use it to receive, deliver, hold or carry objects. The advisory specifies an exception for flower petals placed inside before unfurling on special occasions and national days.
- At statue unveilings, display it distinctly and separately; do not use it to cover a statue or monument.
- Do not cover a speaker’s desk or drape a speaker’s platform with it.
- Do not intentionally allow it to touch the ground or floor, or trail in water.
- Do not drape it over the hood, top, sides or back of a vehicle, train, boat or aircraft.
- Do not use it as a covering for a building.
CJP protest and Connaught Place restrictions
The appeal came against the backdrop of CJP’s call for a “Lehra Do Tiranga” protest. Earlier in the day, Delhi Police sources said a police team had arrived to serve a notice on Abhijeet Dipke. The notice referred to Section 163 being in force in Connaught Place and the absence of NDMC permission for the Tiranga Yatra.
DCP New Delhi Sachin Sharma said Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita was in force in the New Delhi district and entailed restrictions. He appealed to people to abide by the law.
Sharma said a notice had been issued under the Delhi Police Act and that Dipke had been informed about the restrictions and their implications. He also referred to Connaught Place and the ongoing festive season, saying appropriate legal action would be taken.
Flag appeal does not name protesters
The new Delhi Police post focuses on the dignity and handling of the Tricolour. It does not state that carrying the flag itself is prohibited, identify a specific violation by CJP or announce a new order on demonstrations. The earlier police statements concern restrictions on the gathering and compliance with the law.
