Patriotism should be Instilled and not Forced!

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of uniting the whole nation under the umbrella of Nationalism and evoking Patriotism in each co-citizen’s mind, has quite far been successful. Under the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' Mission, we can now see the Tricolor flying high and vibrant in most of the homes, streets, institutions, important monuments and other significant places. The Indian Flag, which could only be hoisted on very special occasions and at very important places, was now seen flying freely at millions of houses. Every citizen of India now has the liberty to hoist the Tricolor. Our flag is now, not at the mercy of the A-class officials or the privileged, to be soaring high.  

On the occasion of India celebrating its 75^th year of Independence, when the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' Campaign seems to have achieved its near goal, one can also see the frustrations of many citizens who are forced to follow this, to prove their Nationalism. This has led to many untoward incidents in many parts of the country. When this mission was put forward, it should have been the responsibility of the ruling government to make aware of the importance of the National Flag and the Flag Code. Every citizen was asked to hoist flags in their homes stating that, flags once made of khadi are available now in all fabric, in post offices, shops and even markets. Will this readily available Indian Flag, now reduce the importance and sanctity of the Tricolor, which always evokes goosebumps to its citizens when it is seen flying, all mighty… No idea at all! Many incidents of disrespect and violation of the Tricolor have been reported in many parts of India. While many such incidents have occurred due to sheer ignorance, many others were triggered or instigated. According to a citizen of India who is a staunch patriotic says he is saddened by the behaviour of his Residence Councillors who are forcing their residents to hoist the flag, else they would be seen as Anti-Nationals. How can Patriotism and Nationalism be forced on its citizens this way. These feelings are definitely not in-born, but can be instilled to each child of the Nation by providing good examples. But when the leaders who are supposed to be presenting good morals to the public get carried away by the power they are withholding, the good examples they are to set, becomes mere advertisement. 

Many political parties are seen taking advantage of this campaign to create more disturbance in the society. The pro-campaign parties are forcing people to hoist flags for the success of the mission whereas the anti-campaign parties are dead set to make it a failure. Lots of debates and violence were reported from many parts of India. Many frustrated citizens have shown their displeasure by violating the Tricolor and ending themselves on the wrong side of the law. Was this mission of 'Har Ghar Tiranga' all necessary? If it was, was it executed properly?

Any mission is successful when it achieves its goal with minimum loss and maximum gain. 'Har Ghar Tiranga' Mission is good but at the end of all the celebrations it should be evaluated if it were practical. If not, the mission should be made to reach the heart of every Indian Citizen in such a way that Nationalism and Patriotism becomes the blood flowing through their veins. Let every Indian learn and live to love their motherland and fellow citizens irrespective of religion, caste or creed. Let every Indian be made aware of the struggle our great leaders fought for the united and free India.  

Jai Hind!

©Anjana PremKumar 2022