Ban on Use of Plastic Flags
Udupi, Aug 12, 2024: In line with the state government’s notification, the use of certain plastic items, including plastic flags, has been banned across Karnataka. This decision aligns with the directives of the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Government of India, which also prohibits the manufacture, import, storage, distribution, sale, and use of plastic flags made from single-use plastics.
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has instructed that, under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, and the Flag Code of India, 2002, all government institutions, private organizations, and the general public are prohibited from using national flags made from plastic during significant national, cultural, and sporting events. Instead of plastic flags, it is recommended to use flags made from paper or cloth. After such events, appropriate measures should be taken to dispose of the flags in a manner that respects their dignity.
Violations of this directive will be prosecuted under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, Section 19, as per the powers vested in the authorities. The Karnataka government will take action as per Notification No. APJ 17 EPC 2012, Bengaluru, against violators in the respective jurisdictions, a press statement by the Office of the District Environmental Officer, Karnataka State Pollution Control Board stated.
