India, Oct 09 : The Swimming Federation of India (SFI) has addressed the recent controversy surrounding the display of the national flag on the swimming trunks of the Indian men’s water polo team during the Asian Aquatics Championship in Ahmedabad, stating that the design fully complies with World Aquatics regulations on competition wear.
The issue gained traction after reports suggested that featuring the tricolour on the athletes’ swimwear violated the Flag Code of India, 2002, and the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971.
Responding to the matter, SFI Secretary-General Monal Chokshi told IANS, “In our opinion, there is no controversy. Some media houses picked it up and think it’s some kind of violation. All countries wear their national flags on competition wear. The Indian team’s uniform aligns with the World Aquatics guidelines.”
The Flag Code of India explicitly restricts the use of the national flag as part of any costume or uniform. However, Chokshi argued that the international federation’s rules allow the inclusion of national emblems, and the practice is consistent among teams worldwide. “The skull cap as well as competition wear has the flag,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Sports Ministry has directed the SFI to correct the uniform design and submit a detailed report. Ministry officials stated that while the breach appeared inadvertent, any use of the national flag contrary to the Flag Code must be rectified immediately.
The clarification from the SFI aims to quell the debate but also underscores the need for better coordination between sports bodies and national authorities to ensure compliance with both global and domestic regulations.