Indian Water Polo Team Faces Backlash for Displaying Tricolour on Trunks, Sports Ministry Intervenes

The Indian men’s water polo team found itself at the centre of a controversy during the Asian Championship after players were seen wearing the national flag on their swimming trunks, which served as their official competition gear. Videos and images from the event quickly spread on social media, sparking outrage and prompting action from government authorities.

According to reports, both the Sports Ministry and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) expressed serious concern over the inappropriate placement of the Tricolour. In response to public sentiment and protocol violations, the Swimming Federation of India (SFI) announced that the team’s kit would be modified before the next match. Going forward, the national flag will only be displayed on the skull cap, not on the trunks.

An SFI official acknowledged the mistake and clarified that while other countries often feature their flags on sportswear, Indian cultural and legal sensitivities must be respected. “We fully respect national sentiments,” the official stated, confirming that a revised uniform will be implemented. The Sports Ministry has also summoned the SFI to provide an explanation and submit a detailed report.

The SFI initially defended the design by stating it complied with World Aquatics’ rules, which allow flags on the suit. However, the issue arose from the Flag Code of India, 2002, and the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971. These laws clearly prohibit the use of the national flag on clothing worn below the waist or on undergarments and forbid allowing the flag to touch the ground or trail in water.

While teams from other nations may follow different practices, Indian law places strong emphasis on preserving the dignity of the Tricolour. The incident has triggered a wider discussion on uniform design, cultural sensitivity, and the need for strict adherence to national protocol in international sporting events.