6 held for ‘disrespect’ to National Anthem at Film Festival of Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram: At least six persons were taken into custody for allegedly showing disrespect to the national anthem after they refused to stand up while it was being played at the ongoing International Film Festival of Kerala.

They refused to stand up while the national anthem was being played in Kannakakunnu Nishagandhi open air theatre at IFFK, police said.

The youth did not budge even after the policemen, who were present at the hall, requested them to stand up. The youth also refused the request of IFFK organisers and Director of Chalachitra Academy Charmin Kamal to stand up.

The six were later taken to Museum police station. Meanwhile, DGP Loknath Behra directed police to keep a watch on anyone who shows disrespect to national anthem during the film festival. He also directed the officials to take into custody those who insult the national anthem.

Earlier in the day, BJP’ youth Yuvamorcha filed a complaint seeking action against the persons, who refused to stand up while the national anthem was being played.

The SC recently passed an order making it compulsory for all cinema halls across the country to play the national anthem.