Govt asked people to show respect to the national anthem

The state government issued directives asking people to show respect to the national anthem but it was not mandatory for thtares to play the anthem and was left to the discretion of theatre owners.

Chief Secretary Rajiv Kumar issued the directives to all Additional Chief Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, HoDs, Divisional Commissioners, District Magistrates and Police Superintendents.

Passing a final order in this connection on January 9, the Supreme Court stated that the committee appointed by Government of India shall submit its recommendations to competent authority regarding national anthem.

“Playing of the national anthem prior to screening of feature films in cinema halls is not mandatory, but optional or directory. Citizens are bound to show respect whenever the national anthem is played or sung. The exemption granted to disabled persons shall remain in force till a final decision of the competent authority with regard to each occasion whenever the national anthem is played or sung,” Kumar said in his directives.