In Brief
A public-spirited petitioner sought a writ directing the government to enforce respect for the National Anthem and specify conduct required when it is played. The Court recognized that the National Anthem must be respected as a salutation to the motherland and as the fundamental grammar of belonging to a nation state. However, it held that prescribing specific places and occasions must be left to the executive, guided by constitutional fundamental duties. The Court modified its interim order making the playing of the National Anthem in cinema halls optional rather than mandatory, pending recommendations from an inter-ministerial committee. Exemptions for disabled persons were retained.
The lawyer headnote and full judgment text are available to registered users.