Hardik Pandya Faces Legal Complaint Over Alleged Insult to Indian Flag After T20 World Cup Celebrations

India’s star all-rounder Hardik Pandya has landed in legal trouble after a complaint was filed against him for allegedly disrespecting the Indian national flag during the celebrations following India’s triumph in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup.

Complaint Filed Over Celebration Video

According to reports, a Pune-based lawyer, Wajed Khan Bidkar, filed a complaint at the Shivaji Nagar police station alleging that Pandya insulted the national flag during the post-match celebrations. 

The complaint refers to videos circulating on social media that show Pandya celebrating on the field with the Indian tricolour draped around his shoulders after India’s victory. The lawyer claims that Pandya later lay down on a stage with his girlfriend while still wrapped in the flag, which he argues amounts to disrespect toward the national symbol.

Alleged Violation of the Flag Code

The complainant stated that such behaviour could violate provisions related to respecting the dignity of the national flag under Indian law. He argued that every citizen has a responsibility to maintain the honour of the tricolour, and actions perceived as misuse or disrespect should be investigated. 

If authorities determine that the act violated the law protecting the national flag, the case could potentially lead to legal action against the cricketer.

Social Media Debate

The incident has sparked intense debate online. While some social media users criticised Pandya’s behaviour and called for strict action, others defended him, arguing that the celebrations were taken out of context and that the player meant no disrespect during the emotional victory celebrations. 

Celebration After Historic Victory

The controversy emerged just days after India secured a memorable victory in the 2026 T20 World Cup final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, where the team celebrated the triumph on the field with fans and teammates. 

Investigation May Follow

Police have acknowledged the complaint, and authorities may examine the video footage and circumstances surrounding the celebration before deciding whether any formal legal action will be taken.

For now, neither Hardik Pandya nor the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has issued an official statement regarding the allegations.