A flag decoration displayed during Republic Day celebrations at RVITM Engineering College in Bengaluru has sparked online controversy after featuring Karnataka’s map in place of the Ashoka Chakra. The design, which was shared in a Reddit post, displayed the Indian tricolour with the state’s map as the central feature, prompting backlash from users who accused the decoration of disrespecting the national flag.
One user expressed disapproval, commenting, “However, I feel wrong in this. You just replaced the Ashoka Chakra.” Another questioned the legality of the design, asking, “Isn’t this defamation of the flag?”
In response to the growing controversy, a third-year National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadet from the college took to the same platform to provide clarification. The cadet explained that the flag decoration was part of a long-standing tradition at NCC Republic Day events, where students participate in flag decoration competitions as part of the celebrations.
“This is a common activity conducted in the Republic Day Camp by DG NCC, as well as a tradition followed by most schools and colleges with NCC units. Competitions are held to judge the best flag area decorations, and designs often represent the respective state or directorate,” the cadet wrote, attempting to reassure critics that the design was part of a recognized cultural practice.
