NEW DELHI: Uttar Pradesh reported the highest number of cases in India under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, in 2023, according to the latest data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB).
The Act penalises acts of disrespect toward India’s national symbols, including the national flag, Constitution, and national anthem. Although cases under this law remain relatively rare, Uttar Pradesh accounted for more incidents last year than the next two states combined.
According to the NCRB report, Uttar Pradesh registered 14 cases, followed by Maharashtra (8) and Madhya Pradesh (6). Kerala (4), Tamil Nadu (3), and Telangana (3) rounded off the top six states.
The central government reiterated that anyone found guilty of insulting national symbols could face imprisonment of up to three years, a fine, or both. Authorities have also emphasized strict enforcement of the Act and the Flag Code of India, 2002, which prescribes proper usage of the national flag.
Disrespect under the law includes actions such as burning, defacing, disfiguring, or using the national flag inappropriately—for instance, embroidering it on garments or cushions, dipping it in salute, flying it at half-mast without authorization, or using it as drapery except during state funerals.
Similarly, preventing or interrupting the singing of the national anthem is punishable with up to three years of imprisonment or a fine. Repeat offenders face a minimum one-year jail term for each subsequent violation.
Legal experts note that the modest but notable rise in such cases may reflect greater public vigilance and awareness of the sanctity of national symbols—especially amid politically charged events and protest movements.
The data underscores how the enforcement of symbolic laws continues to intersect with issues of national identity, political expression, and public sentiment in India.
