Complaint filed against Hardik Pandya over alleged flag disrespect

New Delhi: Amidst the celebrations of the T20 World Cup 2026 victory, Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya appears to be facing legal trouble. A Pune lawyer has filed a police complaint accusing Hardik Pandya of disrespecting the national flag during the victory celebrations and has demanded an FIR against him. Hardik Pandya's troubles may increase in this matter.

Pune lawyer files complaint, what is the whole matter?

Pune lawyer Wajid Khan filed this complaint at the Shivaji Nagar police station. According to the complaint, Hardik Pandya was celebrating the victory with his girlfriend Mahika Sharma after India defeated New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. The lawyer alleges that Hardik had the Indian flag tied around his waist and was lying on the ground with Mahika. According to Wajid Khan, this act violates Section 2 of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, and insults the dignity of the Indian flag.

Controversy sparked by viral videos on social media

The controversy stems from videos and clips that quickly went viral on social media after the victory. In these videos, Hardik and Mahika can be seen posing with the trophy, dancing, and reveling in the joy of victory. In one viral clip, the two were even seen lying together on the podium structure. Speaking to news agency ANI, lawyer Wajid Khan said, "Hardik was so lost in the celebration of his victory that he posed for photos lying down with his girlfriend with the tricolor tied to his back, which is an insult to the national flag."

Police stance and legal aspects

Initially, the police cited jurisdiction, stating that the incident did not occur here, but the lawyer argued that the national flag symbolizes the entire country, so a complaint could be filed anywhere. Shivaji Nagar police have accepted the complaint and handed a copy to the lawyer. Now, the police will investigate the matter to determine whether Hardik's behavior actually disrespected the national flag or was simply part of the euphoria of victory.