India all-rounder Hardik Pandya has reportedly run into legal trouble after a Pune-based advocate filed a police complaint alleging disrespect to the Indian national flag during the celebrations following India’s T20 World Cup victory.
The complaint was submitted at the Shivaji Nagar Police Station and relates to the post-match celebrations held at Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday, where India lifted the T20 World Cup trophy for a record third time.
According to a police officer, advocate Wajid Khan submitted an application seeking action in the matter. However, police have not yet shared further details about any potential proceedings.
The complaint states that several videos from the Indian team’s on-field celebrations have circulated widely on social media. In one clip, Pandya is seen celebrating while running and dancing with the Indian Tricolour draped over his shoulders.
The complainant has also alleged that during the celebrations, Pandya was seen lying on the stage with his girlfriend Mahieka Sharma while the national flag remained draped around him, which he claims amounts to disrespect toward the flag.
Speaking to ANI, Khan said that while celebrating the victory, Pandya had the national flag tied around his back and later lay down during the festivities. He cited provisions of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, which emphasises maintaining the dignity and respect of the national flag.
Khan also said that although the incident took place in Ahmedabad, the national flag represents the entire country, and therefore he believed the complaint could be filed in Pune as well.
“I have filed a complaint with the Shivaji Nagar police station. They have accepted it and provided me with a copy. Now we will see what action follows,” he said.
The incident has sparked mixed reactions on social media. While many fans dismissed the issue as part of enthusiastic celebrations after a historic win, others argued that the national flag should be handled with greater care during such moments.
India defeated New Zealand by 96 runs in the final to clinch their third ICC Men’s T20 World Cup title. The win made India the first team to win the tournament three times and the first to lift the trophy on home soil.
