PIL seeking ‘separate flag’ for state rejected

The Karnataka High Court has rejected a public interest litigation (PIL) that sought a separate flag for the state. The division bench, comprising Chief Justice NV Anjaria and Justice KV Aravind, dismissed the petition, stating that such grievances do not fall within the court’s jurisdiction, particularly in the realm of public interest jurisdiction.

The bench deemed the petition as misconceived and clarified that “the petition is not, however, precluded from pursuing his representations stated to have been pending.” When the petitioner raised concerns that the state government might not act on his representation and requested a specific time limit for a decision, the court orally remarked, “You have flagged your flag, and we have flagged our order.”

Advocate Umapathi S, representing the petitioner, argued that an expert committee, including eminent writers, had been formed based on his representation, which insisted on a separate flag for the state. He further contended that the Constitution of India does not prohibit states from having their own flags. The advocate also relied on the opinion of the Advocate General, which led to the formation of the expert committee.

The petitioner claimed that there is a widespread demand for a state flag across Karnataka, and an unofficial flag is being hoisted throughout the state, causing confusion among the citizens. He emphasised that it is a sensitive issue that could affect the sentiments of the people of Karnataka. The plea sought directions from the court to the state government to present the committee’s recommendations for consideration and to pass appropriate orders in accordance with the law.