No need to stand when national anthem is part of movie: SC

The Supreme Court on Tuesday modified its order that the audience need not stand when the national anthem is played as part of a story line in a film, newsreel or documentary.

The verdict comes a month after a 59-year-old man was assaulted in a movie theatre in Mumbai for not standing up when the National Anthem tune was being played on screen in a scene of the Aamir Khan-starrer Dangal.

In 2015, the Ministry of Home Affairs issued a notice that states, “Whenever the Anthem is sung or played, the audience shall stand to attention. However, when in the course of a newsreel or documentary the Anthem is played as a part of the film, it is not expected of the audience to stand as standing is bound to interrupt the exhibition of the film and would create disorder and confusion rather than add to the dignity of the Anthem. “

Ever since the Supreme Court ruling on December 1, 2016, there have been attacks on individuals for not standing up for the National Anthem. “Universalism is alright but still Bharat is the epitome of culture, knowledge... Gyaan and Vigyaan... people should feel that they live in a nation and show respect to the national anthem and the national flag,” the apex court had ruled.

However, the decision has resulted in several attacks across the country where even disabled individuals have been attacked for not standing for the National Anthem. This is despite the fact that a December 21 guideline issued by the Home Ministry modified the apex court’s order that exempted physically challenged people from standing during the national anthem. However, the a few days later, the Home Ministry has said that people with disabilities should not move and position themselves “maintaining the maximum possible alertness physically”.