The Centre today said the Karnatakagovernment's proposal to approve an official flag for the state was put on hold as the election code of conduct came into force due to the upcoming Assembly polls.
The Home Ministry's comments came after KarnatakaChief MinisterSiddaramaiahasked Prime MinisterNarendra Modito approve the state flag.
"The request for a separate flag was received from Karnataka Since the election code of conduct has come into force, the consideration has been put on hold," an Official Spokespersonsaid.
The Assembly elections in Karnatakawould be held on May 12. Modi visited the state today for campaigning for the BJP.
Invoking Kannada pride, Siddaramaiahhad yesterday asked Modi to approve the state flag.
"Congratulations to Prime MinisterNarendra Modiwho has declared himself a Kannadiga. Becoming Kannadiga means accepting Kannada language, naada geete (state anthem), naadadwaja (state flag)," he said.
"Will you become true Kannadiga by giving approval to Karnataka's nada dwaja? #AnswerMadiModi," Siddaramaiahtweeted in Kannada.
Flagging "Kannadiga pride" ahead of the Assembly polls, Siddaramaiahhad unveiled the proposed official state flag for the state in March.
The state's flag, in hues of yellow, white and red, has the state's emblem 'Gandaberunda', a two-headed mythological bird, at its centre.
The proposal was forwarded to the Centre for mandatory approval.
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