CONTROVERSY OVER STANDING up FOR National Anthem The controversy is assuming disproportionate dimension under present circumstances in which intolerance is the flavour of the season Needlessly it is turned into a battle and war of words between Hindus and Muslims, thus aggravating already surcharged atmosphere Every school going student i India is ingrained respect for National anthem, unless the people under scanner never attended any formal schooling to be ignorant about it. It is another matter why National anthem is introduced in cinema halls by legislation, since 2003 in Maharashtra by NCP and mandated to stand in order. Earlier it was played at the end of the show and doors were locked till it was over It also states there in that people can exercise their choice What is disturbing is that spectators take law enforcement in their own hands and chuck them out in spite of having valid tickets, intimidating, showering with abuses short of physical assault What is their explanation? Is it downright defiance, knowingly, willingly, conscienceciously or just mild indifference? Could there have been better civilized alternative response? It is only fuelling religious divide, hatred and animosity. It is pure lumpenism to hackle down for not standing
Even though there is no constitutional codification, legal enforceability, it is morally binding and is no more personal CHOICE and liberty. but believe in the cause. Standing up during National anthem is not a barometer of displaying patriotism publicly .National anthem and flag are National identities and every citizen must show due respect as a matter of pride and honour, Instances of Johny Lever I 1988 taken to task officially, In 2003 Tokyo teachers were castigated for refusing to stand and in 1966 NBA player was also suspended for same reasons. Showing reverence, respect by a simple gesture by standing to order for few seconds is an indication of a cultured, educated , dignified citizen of a Nation.Playing of National anthem of individual players in soccer team, olympics is drive the sense of national pride. It is highly debatable as to how carelessly, disrespectfully people stand during such an exercise without respect and dignity Nelson Lopes Chinchinim
