Rourkela: An alleged act of disrespect to the National Flag marred the 80th Independence Day celebrations organised by the Subdega block administration at New Odisha High School playground in Sundargarh district on Saturday, prompting authorities to launch an inquiry.In front of thousands of attendees, the tricolour was reportedly hoisted upside down, with the green band placed at the top and the saffron at the bottom. The flag was unfurled by Subdega panchayat samiti chairperson Kunti Pradhan, who was the chief guest at the event. Block development officer (BDO) Biswanath Sahu, vice‑chairperson Sushant Behera and headmistress Sabita Patnaik were also present.Witnesses said the error was pointed out immediately after the flag was raised, prompting officials to correct its position on the spot. The incident has sparked criticism over the mishandling of the National Flag during an official Independence Day ceremony.Pradhan said she has directed the BDO to conduct an inquiry. “The BDO had entrusted the school teachers with arrangements for the flag hoisting. He has admitted that the mistake occurred during the celebration,” she told reporters. Repeated attempts to contact the BDO went unanswered.
