ABVP demands action over Pakistan flag used in Madhya Pradesh pre-school play

In Ratlam, Madhya Pradesh, a preschool's display of a Pakistan flag during a play has led to protests by right-wing groups, including the ABVP, the student wing of the BJP. The controversy arose during an Independence Day cultural program where the flag was used as a prop in a skit about India's freedom struggle and Partition. Despite the school's explanation, right-wing groups blocked Mhow-Neemuch Road for an hour on Wednesday, demanding action against the institution.

The incident came to light when a video clip of the play was shared on social media. The seven-minute video posted by the school showcased children celebrating Indian culture and diversity. Toward the end, most of the kids were holding the Indian Tricolour, while one child held the Pakistan flag as the narrator described Partition. The Pakistani flag was promptly removed from the stage once the scene was over.

Ratlam collector Rajesh Batham acknowledged the incident and stated it had been referred to the local police for investigation.


"I have received information about this incident. The matter has been passed on to local police for investigation. We have not initiated any action through the education department," said Batham.

Similarly, Ratlam DEO in charge Ashok Lodha pointed out that preschools do not fall under the education department's recognition or affiliation, which precludes any direct action from them.

"Preschools do not have any affiliation or recognition from the education department. Thus, we have not initiated any action in this regard," Lodha clarified.

The school argued that the video was misconstrued. The management explained that the skit aimed to educate children about India's Independence struggle, including the historical reality of Partition, which necessitated the use of both the Indian and Pakistani flags.

"The play was intended to educate the children about India's struggle for Independence, including Partition. The Pakistani flag was used as part of a historical scene. The scene depicting Partition required the presence of both flags. Someone cropped that portion from the original video and shared it on social media, and it got misinterpreted," said Deepak Panth, the director of the preschool.

Despite this explanation, the video clip sparked outrage on social media, leading to the protests from right-wing groups. The matter is now under police investigation to ascertain the full context and nature of the incident.

(With inputs from TOI)