Bengaluru: Though advocates more or less agree that there is no constitutional bar on a state having its own flag, they have different views on the practical problems in implementing this.
Noted lawyer, B.V. Acharya was of the view that by proposing a state flag, Karnataka might invite practical problems. “The Constitution speaks of a national flag, so by implication, states should not have their flag. Keeping in view Karnataka’s water and border disputes with neighbouring states, it is not advisable for the state to have its own flag. For instance, Kannadigas residing in border areas in other states may want to hoist the Karnataka flag and the local administration may object to it. This may lead to more discord and law and order problems,” he said.
Mr Acharya also felt the state should avoid a parochial mentality which could result in divisive politics. Supreme Court lawyer, Mohan Katarki felt that the state could have its own flag.
“Five star hotels have their flags, does anyone object to it? No. As long as there is no constitutional bar on this, the state can have it, nothing wrong.”
Asked what could be the reason for the Siddaramaiah government now proposing a state flag, Mr Katarki felt this might be the strategy of the Congress to pay back the BJP in its own coin.
“The BJP always speak about nationalism. This flag issue is of nationalism within a nation. This might help the Congress to beat the BJP. Now, the Congress is also playing to the gallery.”
About practical problems, he admitted that this might give rise to minor law and order issues.
