However, the bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra said that a 12-member inter-ministerial committee would take the final decision on playing the national anthem in theatres.

The bench which also comprised of justices DY Chandrachud and AM Khanwilkar, said that the committee should comprehensively look into all aspects relating to playing of the national anthem.

The government had told the top court on Monday that it had formed an inter-ministerial committee for framing guidelines for playing the national anthem at various public places including movie halls which would require at least six months of time.

The SC in its order on November 30, 2016 had ruled that all cinemas must play the national anthem before screening of a film "for the love of the mother land". The court's order had also said that the national flag should be displayed on the screen while the anthem plays and the audience should stand as a mark of respect.